Crosswind turbulence causes wingtip strike in Dassault Falcon 10 accident

Casualties unknown • Aircraft Accident with SE-DYB at Östersund/Frösön F4 Airport, SE

A Dassault Falcon 10 sustained substantial damage during a landing at Östersund/Frösön F4 airport due to intense turbulence and uncorrected crosswinds.

What happened

On September 3, 1999, a Dassault Falcon 10, registration SE-DYB, was performing a private charter flight from Stockholm/Bromma to Östersund/Frösön F4 airport. During the visual approach to runway 30, the crew encountered significant turbulence and strong winds. While the reported wind was approximately 23 knots, the crew noted on their instruments that the wind had reached 50 knots from the southwest.

As the aircraft touched down, it bounced, prompting the co-pilot to push the control column forward. The aircraft then bounced again, specifically on the right main gear, and began an abrupt roll to the left. During this sequence, the aircraft swerved, and the commander extended the airbrakes. The left wingtip and aileron subsequently struck the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. There were no injuries to the two crew members or the four passengers on board.

The investigation

The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) examined the aircraft's flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, as well as meteorological and operational records. The investigation focused on the wind conditions at the time of the accident, noting that the wind measurement equipment for runway 30 was unserviceable due to ongoing construction work. This prevented the pilots from receiving accurate information regarding wind variations.

Investigators also reviewed the crew's operational procedures, including their use of checklists, phraseology, and the availability of landing charts. The investigation also looked into the mechanical operation of the aircraft's airbrakes and the impact of local terrain on wind patterns near the airport.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the flying pilot's inability to correct for the strong, gusty crosswinds and turbulence during the landing and touchdown. A contributing factor was the potential extension of the airbrakes while the aircraft was still airborne.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-09-03 aircraft accident near Aircraft Accident with SE-DYB at Östersund/Frösön F4 Airport, SE?

A Dassault Falcon 10 sustained substantial damage during a landing at Östersund/Frösön F4 airport due to intense turbulence and uncorrected crosswinds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-09-03 involved a aircraft, registration SE-DYB, at Aircraft Accident with SE-DYB at Östersund/Frösön F4 Airport, SE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the flying pilot's inability to correct for the strong, gusty crosswinds and turbulence during the landing and touchdown. A contributing factor was the potential extension of the airbrakes while the aircraft was still airborne.

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