Casualties unknown

1989-06-01: Beech E-90 (N987GM) — Tuba City, AZ

Tuba City, AZ, US

On June 1, 1989, a Beech E-90 (registration N987GM) was involved in an aviation accident near Tuba City, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THAT GROUND PERSONNEL DID NOT PROPERLY CLEAR THE RUNWAY OF ANIMALS PRIOR TO REPORTING TO THE PILOT THAT IT WAS CLEAR TO LAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a night landing, a pilot encountered two horses crossing the runway just before touchdown. The go-around was aborted after contacting the animals, causing the left main landing gear to collapse and a post-crash fire.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's account, while approaching a hospital 15 minutes prior to arrival, he requested that the runway be checked for obstructions. However, as he entered the downwind leg, security personnel informed him of animals on the runway. The pilot circled until security called back, stating the runway was clear.

Collision and Aborted Go-Around

As the airplane touched down, two horses began to cross the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around, but the airplane struck both animals. The pilot then elected to abort the go-around. The left main landing gear collapsed, and the airplane slid to a stop on the runway.

Post-Crash Fire

A post-crash fire ignited but was extinguished shortly thereafter. The landing occurred during dark night conditions. No further details were provided regarding injuries, aircraft damage beyond the gear collapse, or the horses' condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28365. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.