Landing gear collapse during missed approach at Deer Lake Airport

Casualties unknown • Deer Lake Airport (CYVZ), Ontario, CA

A SkyCare Air Ambulance flight involving a Fairchild SA227-TT resulted in a landing gear collapse after striking the ground short of the runway during a fog-related missed approach.

What happened

On 19 May 2023, a Fairchild SA227-TT operated by 2080061 Ontario Inc. (doing business as SkyCare Air Ambulance) was performing a flight from Sioux Lookout Airport (CYXL) to Deer Lake Airport (CYVZ). The aircraft was carrying four crew members and one passenger.

During the flight, the crew attempted to land on Runway 31 at Deer Lake Airport. However, due to fog causing low visibility, the crew initiated a missed approach. During a second approach attempt, the aircraft struck the ground roughly 100 meters before reaching the runway threshold. The impact caused the landing gear to collapse, and the aircraft slid to a stop on its belly.

All five occupants successfully evacuated the aircraft via the over-wing emergency exit. The captain sustained minor injuries. There was no fire following the impact, and the aircraft's emergency locator transmitter functioned as intended.

The investigation

The TSB examined the circumstances surrounding the aircraft's contact with the ground and the subsequent gear failure. The investigation focused on the flight conditions and the sequence of the two approach attempts.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold during a second approach attempt necessitated by low visibility, leading to a landing gear collapse.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-05-19 Fairchild Aircraft Incorporated SA227-TT, C-FRPX accident near Deer Lake Airport (CYVZ), Ontario, CA?

A SkyCare Air Ambulance flight involving a Fairchild SA227-TT resulted in a landing gear collapse after striking the ground short of the runway during a fog-related missed approach.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-05-19 involved a Fairchild Aircraft Incorporated SA227-TT, C-FRPX, operated by 2080061 Ontario Inc. (dba SkyCare Air Ambulance), at Deer Lake Airport (CYVZ), Ontario, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold during a second approach attempt necessitated by low visibility, leading to a landing gear collapse.

Loading the flight search…