Incident Summary
On 2 September 2004 at 1525 UTC, a Beech C24R Musketeer Super R (registration N39TA) experienced a collision with a dog immediately after touching down on grass Runway 29 at Breighton Airfield, Humberside. The right landing gear separated from the aircraft, and the right wing and elevator contacted the ground. The aircraft subsequently slewed to the right into an adjacent cornfield as it decelerated.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft was a 1978 Beech C24R Musketeer Super R, powered by a single Lycoming I0-360 SER piston engine. The private flight was conducted by the 56-year-old commander, who held a Private Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 588 flying hours, including 79 hours on type. In the previous 90 days, he had flown 14 hours, with 5 hours in the last 28 days. There were two passengers on board.
Sequence of Events
The approach and touchdown onto the grass runway were normal. The runway is unfenced and surrounded by open farmland. Immediately after touchdown, a dog ran under the right side of the aircraft. A loud bang was heard, and the right landing gear detached. The right wing and elevator then struck the ground. During deceleration, the pilot initially maintained directional control, but as speed decreased, the aircraft turned to the right and entered a cornfield.
Injuries and Damage
All three occupants (the pilot and two passengers) vacated the aircraft without injury. The dog was killed instantly during the impact. The aircraft sustained damage to the right landing gear, right wing, and elevator.