Aircraft ground impact during approach to Milan-Malpensa Airport

No fatalities • Milan-Malpensa, Italy • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft struck the ground left of the runway at Milan-Malpensa Airport during a low-visibility approach, resulting in 26 injuries.

What happened

During an approach to Milan-Malpensa Airport, the aircraft encountered significantly reduced visibility caused by heavy fog. As the flight progressed through its final segment, the plane made contact with the ground situated to the left of the primary runway. The force of the impact was severe enough to detach all four engines and the entire landing gear assembly from the airframe.

Following the initial impact, the aircraft traveled several hundred meters across the terrain before coming to a halt in a grassy field. The structural integrity of the plane was compromised during the excursion; the fuselage became bent, and the cockpit section became completely severed from the main body of the aircraft. Despite the damage, all 122 people on board were successfully evacuated from the wreckage. The incident resulted in 26 injuries among the passengers and crew.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was the failure of the pilot-in-command to adhere to established flight procedures during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The pilot-in-command failed to follow approved operational procedures during the approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-12-22 Boeing 707 accident near Milan-Malpensa, Italy?

An aircraft struck the ground left of the runway at Milan-Malpensa Airport during a low-visibility approach, resulting in 26 injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-12-22 Boeing 707 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-12-22 involved a Boeing 707, registration N18701, operated by Trans World Airlines - TWA, at Milan-Malpensa, Italy.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot-in-command failed to follow approved operational procedures during the approach.

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