What happened
During a nighttime cargo mission intended to support relief efforts in the aftermath of a tsunami in the Aceh province, an aircraft was performing its landing sequence at Banda Aceh. As the crew initiated the braking process following touchdown, the aircraft struck a buffalo on the runway.
The force of the collision resulted in the separation of the left main landing gear. Following the impact, the aircraft slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop. While the aircraft was declared a total loss due to damage beyond repair, both pilots were able to exit the wreckage uninjured.
Findings
- The collision with an animal occurred during the landing phase of flight.
- The impact caused structural failure of the left main gear.