14 Aug 2008: EMBRAER EMB-145LR — American Connection

14 Aug 2008: EMBRAER EMB-145LR — American Connection

No fatalities • St. Louis, MO, United States

Probable cause

The flying pilot's excessive angle of attack during the landing flare resulting in abnormal runway contact.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

While en route to the destination airport, the first officer (FO) warned that his flaps 45 degrees landings are "a little extreme." The FO continues by stating that the landings are "a little non-standard, but it’s way more fun." The flight data recorder (FDR) showed an increase in the airplane's pitch angle at approximately 34 feet above ground level. The landing flare continued to increase to approximately 13 degrees of pitch angle with a corresponding angle of attack of 17 degrees. The airplane's stick shaker/stall warning system activated seconds before the landing, during which the airplane's tail section contacted the runway.

Contributing factors

  • cause Incorrect use/operation

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 300/05kt, vis 10sm

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