Nose gear collapse during landing at Gatwick Airport

No fatalities • London-Gatwick, United Kingdom • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a nose gear failure upon touchdown at Gatwick Airport, resulting in the vessel sliding along the runway and sustaining heavy damage.

What happened

During the landing phase at Gatwick Airport, an aircraft experienced a structural failure of its forward landing gear immediately following touchdown. The collapse of the nose gear caused the plane to lose stability, leading it to slide for several dozen yards along the airfield surface before coming to a complete stop.

Despite the impact and the subsequent movement along the runway, all eight occupants on board were able to exit the aircraft without injury. While there were no fatalities or injuries reported among the crew and passengers, the aircraft sustained damage that was determined to be beyond repair.

Findings

An investigation into the incident concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the collapse of the nose gear during the landing sequence.

Probable cause

The nose landing gear failed upon contact with the runway during touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-07-26 Airspeed AS.57 Ambassador accident near London-Gatwick, United Kingdom?

An aircraft experienced a nose gear failure upon touchdown at Gatwick Airport, resulting in the vessel sliding along the runway and sustaining heavy damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-07-26 Airspeed AS.57 Ambassador accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-07-26 involved a Airspeed AS.57 Ambassador, registration G-ALZR, operated by BKS Air Transport, at London-Gatwick, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The nose landing gear failed upon contact with the runway during touchdown.

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