On January 4, 2005, a Boeing 737-200 (registration PK-YGM) operated by Tri-MG Intra Asia Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Banda Aceh, Indonesia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with a buffalo upon landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Photo: San Diego Air & Space Museum Archives / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
A cargo aircraft on a tsunami relief mission struck a buffalo while landing at night in Banda Aceh, causing left main gear failure and substantial damage. Both pilots escaped unharmed.
Incident Details
The aircraft was completing a cargo flight to Banda Aceh as part of a relief operation following the recent tsunami that affected Aceh province. After landing in nighttime conditions, the crew initiated the braking procedure when the aircraft collided with a buffalo. Upon impact, the left main landing gear was torn off. The aircraft then slid for several dozen meters before coming to rest.
Post-Accident Outcome
Both pilots escaped uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a collision with a buffalo upon landing.
