Right Main Landing Gear Collapse of Fokker F100

Casualties unknown • Charlotte, NC, US

A Fokker F100 experienced a right main landing gear collapse during its landing rollout, following improper maintenance procedures.

What happened

During the landing rollout phase of flight, the right main landing gear of a Fokker F100 collapsed.

The investigation

An investigation into company maintenance records showed that the torque link damper on the right main landing gear had been serviced using an internal company maintenance task/job card. This procedure failed to follow the specific maintenance instructions provided in the aircraft manufacturer's maintenance manual. Additionally, the necessary tools, specifically a replenishing gun, were not available at the time of the service to properly maintain the torque link damper assembly.

An examination of the failed components by the NTSB Materials Laboratory Division identified fractures originating at the base of the upper torque link attach lug. These fractures exhibited a chevron pattern, which indicated that the failure was caused by overstress. No evidence of preexisting cracks was found on the components.

Probable cause

The collapse was caused by overstress to the torque link attach lug resulting from maintenance performed using improper procedures and inadequate tools.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-11-07 Fokker F100 accident near Charlotte, NC?

A Fokker F100 experienced a right main landing gear collapse during its landing rollout, following improper maintenance procedures.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-11-07 involved a Fokker F100, registration N865US, at Charlotte, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse was caused by overstress to the torque link attach lug resulting from maintenance performed using improper procedures and inadequate tools.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09214. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…