On October 12, 2001, a Beech BE-55-T42A (registration N44RA) operated by Ram Air Freight, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Raleigh, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare, and improper recovery from a bounced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing, the aircraft bounced three times on the nosewheel, each bounce more severe. The pilot added power and completed the landing, but the airplane sustained damage to the nose gear, left propeller, left engine mount, and fuselage.
Incident Details
During the landing sequence, the airplane contacted the runway on its nosewheel and bounced three times. Each successive bounce was more pronounced than the previous one. In response, the pilot applied power and successfully completed the landing.
Damage Description
Post-landing inspection revealed damage to multiple components. The nose gear sustained structural damage. The left propeller exhibited damage to the blade tips. The left engine mount was also damaged. Additionally, the fuselage forward of the cabin door was compromised.
Examination Findings
A post-crash airframe examination was conducted, during which no mechanical problems were noted. The pilot did not report any mechanical issues with the airplane during the landing.