Aircraft ground impact at Kolonia Airport

No fatalities • Kolonia, Federated States of Micronesia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground short of the runway threshold during its final approach to Pohnpei Island.

What happened

During the final approach phase at Kolonia Airport on Pohnpei Island, the aircraft descended below the required altitude. The impact occurred just before the runway threshold, resulting in the right main landing gear being ripped from the airframe and the subsequent collapse of the left main gear.

Following the initial contact with the ground, the aircraft slid along its fuselage for several dozen meters before eventually coming to a stop on the runway surface. There were no injuries reported among the three crew members, all of whom were able to evacuate the wreckage safely. The aircraft was declared a total loss due to the extent of the structural damage.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating at an altitude that was too low during the approach to the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold because it was flying too low during its final approach.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-03-11 Boeing 727-200 accident near Kolonia, Federated States of Micronesia?

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground short of the runway threshold during its final approach to Pohnpei Island.

Were there any fatalities in the 2001-03-11 Boeing 727-200 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-03-11 involved a Boeing 727-200, registration N701NE, operated by Express One International, at Kolonia, Federated States of Micronesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold because it was flying too low during its final approach.

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