Aircraft collision and fire following landing gear collapse

No fatalities • Gold Beach, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a right main landing gear failure during touchdown, leading to a runway excursion and a subsequent collision with a non-residential building.

What happened

During the landing phase of flight, specifically upon touchdown on the runway, the right main gear of the aircraft suffered a structural collapse. Following this mechanical failure, the pilot attempted to maintain directional stability by applying left rudder and utilizing the braking system. However, these corrective measures were unsuccessful in preventing the aircraft from veering toward the right side of the runway.

The excursion resulted in a high-impact collision with a non-residential building located near the runway. The impact triggered a significant fire that spread rapidly, resulting in the total destruction of both the aircraft and the structure. Due to the intense heat and the nature of the conflagration, investigators were unable to examine the fracture surfaces of the right landing gear components.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident identified several critical factors contributing to the event:

  • The primary failure was a total collapse of the main landing gear immediately following contact with the runway.
  • A loss of directional control occurred during the ground roll, making it impossible for the crew to prevent the aircraft from swerving.
  • The sequence concluded with an uncontrolled collision between the aircraft and a stationary object (a building).

Probable cause

The total failure of the right main landing gear caused the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a building.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-09-30 Beechcraft 100 King Air accident near Gold Beach, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a right main landing gear failure during touchdown, leading to a runway excursion and a subsequent collision with a non-residential building.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-09-30 Beechcraft 100 King Air accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-09-30 involved a Beechcraft 100 King Air, registration N32RL, operated by Avantair, at Gold Beach, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The total failure of the right main landing gear caused the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a building.

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