Casualties unknown

1991-11-26: Beech C-12C (N783MC) — U.s. Customs Service — Belen, NM

Belen, NM, US

On November 26, 1991, a Beech C-12C (registration N783MC) operated by U.s. Customs Service was involved in an aviation accident near Belen, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO LAND AT THE PROPER TOUCHDOWN POINT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

A CFI demonstrating a short field landing touched down 22 inches short of the runway. The right wing then dipped, and during a go-around attempt, the wing and propeller contacted the ground, causing a runway excursion and right main landing gear collapse.

Incident Overview

A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) was conducting a training flight with two rated pilots. The CFI briefed the pilots on the tasks, conditions, and standards for a short field landing technique. As the aircraft approached the airport, the CFI took the controls to demonstrate the maneuver.

According to all three pilots on board, the entire approach, including airspeed, rate of descent, and approach angle, appeared normal. However, touchdown occurred approximately 22 inches short of the intended landing surface.

Sequence of Events

Shortly after touching down, the right wing dipped. The CFI attempted to add power to execute a go-around. During this maneuver, the right wing and propeller made contact with the ground. This caused the airplane to veer to the right, and it eventually departed the runway.

Aircraft Damage

As a result of the excursion, the right main landing gear collapsed into the wheel well. No other damage details were provided in the source.

Pilot Statements

The three pilots on board confirmed that the approach appeared normal in all aspects prior to the unexpected touchdown short of the runway surface. The source does not specify any other factors or conditions.

Conclusion

The incident involved a short landing, a subsequent wing drop, and a go-around attempt that led to ground contact and a runway excursion. The probable cause is not stated in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18448. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.