Casualties unknown

1996-04-18: Cessna 310D (N100VG) — Bruce D. Willis — Palmetto, GA

Palmetto, GA, US

On April 18, 1996, a Cessna 310D (registration N100VG) operated by Bruce D. Willis was involved in an aviation accident near Palmetto, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain the proper descent rate resulting in a hard landing and collapse of the right main landing gear. 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

A pilot diverted due to a partially open cabin door. While on short final, a high sink rate developed; power was added late, resulting in a hard landing that collapsed the right main landing gear.

Incident Summary

A pilot reported diverting from the intended destination after discovering a partially open cabin door. Upon arrival at the diversion airport, the aircraft entered the traffic pattern and prepared for landing on a 2,690-foot runway with a 600-foot displaced threshold.

Sequence of Events

During the short final approach, a high sink rate developed. The pilot applied nose-up elevator input three times, but engine power was only increased during the third input. The aircraft subsequently landed hard on the right main landing gear, causing it to collapse.

Landing and Aftermath

Following the collapse of the right main gear, the airplane bounced twice, veered off the right side of the runway, and contacted a closed taxiway that was raised 4–6 inches above the surrounding surface. This impact caused the left main landing gear and the nose landing gear to collapse as well. No further details were provided regarding occupants or injuries.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05638. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.