What happened
During the descent toward Roberts International Airport, the flight crew notified air traffic control of ongoing mechanical difficulties. As the situation progressed, the captain determined that the aircraft was unable to successfully reach the intended runway. In an effort to avoid a more catastrophic outcome, the pilot initiated an emergency landing in an open area situated approximately 11 km from the airport.
Upon contacting the ground, the aircraft's landing gear separated from the airframe. The plane slid for several dozen meters across the terrain before the movement ceased. The accident resulted in one fatality among the crew, while the remaining nine survivors were successfully extracted from the wreckage.
Findings
- The crew reported technical issues prior to the impact.
- The pilot's decision to divert to a field was driven by the inability to reach the airfield.
- The separation of the undercarriage occurred during the impact sequence.