1998-11-11: Mcdonnell Douglas MD-11 — Portland, OR

Casualties unknown • Portland, OR, US

Probable cause

The flight crew's entry of an incorrect weight figure in the Flight Management System (FMS) computer, resulting in the approach being flown at an improper (low) Vref speed and an excessively nose-high attitude through the landing flare.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The flight crew inadvertently entered an incorrect weight figure into the Flight Management System (FMS) computer. This resulted in the approach being flown at 136 knots instead of the correct airspeed of 151 knots. At this airspeed, the aircraft proceeded along the flight path at a pitch attitude of about eight (8) degrees instead of the three or four degrees that would have occurred at the correct airspeed. At this reduced airspeed and excessive attitude, the tail clearance during the flare was reduced to the point where the airframe contacted the runway surface.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-11-11 Mcdonnell Douglas MD-11 accident near Portland, OR?

The flight crew inadvertently entered an incorrect weight figure into the Flight Management System (FMS) computer. This resulted in the approach being flown at 136 knots instead of the correct airspeed of 151 knots. At this airspeed, the aircraft proceeded along the flight path at a pitch attitude of about eight (8)…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-11-11 involved a Mcdonnell Douglas MD-11, registration N801DE, at Portland, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight crew's entry of an incorrect weight figure in the Flight Management System (FMS) computer, resulting in the approach being flown at an improper (low) Vref speed and an excessively nose-high attitude through the landing flare.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11500. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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