On May 25, 1996, a Mcdonnell Douglas MD-11 (registration HL737) was involved in an aviation accident near Los Angeles, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the crew's failure to maintain the proper approach airspeed and rate of descent. Contributing to the accident was the crew's failure to follow the checklist and inadequate supervision by the pilot-in-command. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a landing on runway 25L at Los Angeles International Airport, the aircraft's tail struck the runway. Flight data showed airspeed below Vref with an increased rate of descent. The crew had not used the appropriate checklist nor armed the spoilers.
Incident Details
A commercial aircraft, with the first officer flying manually, was cleared to land on runway 25L at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The crew of a commuter aircraft holding for departure witnessed the landing and observed the tail strike upon touchdown.
Flight Data
According to information from the flight data recorder, the airspeed fell below Vref with a corresponding increase in the rate of descent. The aircraft's attitude was 12 degrees nose high when the tail contacted the runway, coincident with the main gear touchdown.
Crew Actions
The crew did not use the appropriate checklist for the approach and landing, nor did they arm the spoilers.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 May 1996 Mcdonnell Douglas MD-11 accident near Los Angeles, CA?
During a landing on runway 25L at Los Angeles International Airport, the aircraft's tail struck the runway. Flight data showed airspeed below Vref with an increased rate of descent. The crew had not used the appropriate checklist nor armed the spoilers.
Were there any fatalities in the 25 May 1996 Mcdonnell Douglas MD-11 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 May 1996 involved a Mcdonnell Douglas MD-11, registration HL737, at Los Angeles, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the crew's failure to maintain the proper approach airspeed and rate of descent. Contributing to the accident was the crew's failure to follow the checklist and inadequate supervision by the pilot-in-command.
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