On June 17, 2010, a Cessna T310R, registration N310RH, crashed while on final approach to Sierra Blanca Regional Airport (SRR) in Ruidoso, New Mexico. The aircraft, operated by Rod Aviation LLC, was performing a personal cross-country flight from Granbury, Texas. The impact with the terrain was followed by a post-crash fire.
What happened
The flight originated from Granbury Regional Airport, with a stop at Cleburne Municipal Airport to pick up passengers. At approximately 09:52 MDT, the aircraft was on final approach for landing at SRR. Line service personnel at the airport reported that the aircraft appeared "little high" on its approach. Witnesses observed the airplane begin a gradual descent that quickly transitioned into a rapid, nose-down descent. One witness described the aircraft as going "straight down" before dust rose from the area.
A surviving passenger reported that shortly before the impact, the wings were rocking and the aircraft felt as though it were being tossed by the wind. The aircraft struck the ground approximately 1/4-mile northeast of the approach end of the runway in a 35-degree left bank and a 52- to 57-degree nose-down angle. The accident resulted in 5 fatal injuries and 2 serious injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and found the engines were operating at the time of impact. An examination of the left engine showed the propeller mounting bolts had fractured due to overload. The aircraft's flaps were found in the 20-degree extended position, and the landing gear was extended.
Mechanical analysis of the engines, including borescope inspections of the pistons and valves, showed no abnormalities that would have prevented normal operation. The aircraft's weight and balance were determined to be within proper limits at the time of the accident. Additionally, the fuel selector valves were found in the off position, and the left fuel selector was positioned on the right main tank, while the right selector was positioned on the left main tank.
Findings
- The pilot failed to maintain proper airspeed during the final approach.
- The aircraft likely entered an aerodynamic stall after the pilot attempted to reduce altitude by reducing airspeed and raising the nose.
- The pilot's limited experience in this specific aircraft make and model contributed to the accident.