Aircraft damage following landing accident at Hartford-Brainard Airport

No fatalities • Hartford-Brainard, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained irreparable damage after losing control during touchdown due to heavy crosswinds while on a positioning flight.

What happened

During a positioning flight destined for Hartford-Brainard Airport, the aircraft experienced significant difficulties upon arrival. As the plane approached the runway, the pilot encountered intense crosswind conditions. Immediately following the touchdown, the aircraft became uncontrollable. This loss of control resulted in the separation of the undercarriage from the airframe. The aircraft eventually came to a stop on the shoulder of the runway.

There were no fatalities or injuries reported among the crew, as the pilot remained unharmed during the event. However, the impact and subsequent excursion caused extensive damage to the aircraft type/model, which was later determined to be a total loss.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified that the primary factor was the presence of a strong right crosswind, measured at 25 knots with gusts reaching 35 knots (80°). The official conclusion noted that the pilot made an error in judgment by attempting to land despite these unfavorable wind conditions.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to land during high-velocity crosswinds led to a loss of directional control upon touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1968-06-03 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Hartford-Brainard, United States of America?

An aircraft sustained irreparable damage after losing control during touchdown due to heavy crosswinds while on a positioning flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 1968-06-03 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1968-06-03 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N4000Y, operated by New England Propeller Service, at Hartford-Brainard, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to land during high-velocity crosswinds led to a loss of directional control upon touchdown.

Loading the flight search…