No fatalities

2003-09-24: Antonov AN-12 (ST-SAR) — Sarit Airlines — Wau, South Sudan

Wau, South SudanLanding (descent or approach)

On September 24, 2003, an Antonov AN-12 (registration ST-SAR) operated by Sarit Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Wau, South Sudan during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The left main landing gear failed upon contact with the runway during touchdown. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781200789Data APIEditorial standards

A structural failure of the left main landing gear caused an aircraft to veer off the runway at Wau Airport, resulting in a write-off but no injuries.

What happened

During the landing phase at Wau Airport, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving its landing gear. As the plane touched down, the left main gear collapsed under the weight of the aircraft. This structural failure caused the aircraft to lose directional control, resulting in it veering toward the left side of the runway.

The movement continued until the aircraft came to a complete stop off the paved surface. Despite the impact and the subsequent excursion from the runway, all five crew members on board were able to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.

Following the incident, an assessment of the airframe determined that the damage sustained during the gear collapse and runway excursion was too extensive to allow for repairs. The aircraft was subsequently declared a total loss.

Findings

Investigations into the incident focused on the sudden failure of the landing assembly. The primary factor identified was the failure of the left main gear at the moment of touchdown. At this time, the specific underlying reason for why the component failed remains undetermined.

Probable cause

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