On August 2, 1993, a Boeing 757-222 (registration N508UA) operated by United Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Denver, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's late initiation of the landing flare, which caused a firm touchdown and subsequent tail strike. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A commercial flight experienced a tail strike after a late flare and firm touchdown during a visual approach to runway 26R, resulting in minor structural damage.
What happened
The first officer was operating the aircraft while conducting a visual approach to runway 26R. The flight crew maintained a stable approach profile from an altitude of 500 feet above the ground. However, the pilot initiated the landing flare later than optimal, causing the aircraft to touch down with excessive vertical speed.
Upon initial contact with the pavement, the airplane bounced slightly and pitched into a nose-high attitude. As the aircraft descended for a second touchdown, the rear fuselage made contact with the runway surface, resulting in a tail strike.
Probable cause
The pilot's late initiation of the landing flare, which caused a firm touchdown and subsequent tail strike.
What happened in the 2 Aug 1993 Boeing 757-222 accident near Denver, CO?
A commercial flight experienced a tail strike after a late flare and firm touchdown during a visual approach to runway 26R, resulting in minor structural damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Aug 1993 Boeing 757-222 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Aug 1993 involved a Boeing 757-222, registration N508UA, operated by United Airlines, at Denver, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's late initiation of the landing flare, which caused a firm touchdown and subsequent tail strike.
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