What happened
The aircraft, registered EI-STD, was performing a cargo flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle to East Midlands. The flight was carrying 10 tonnes of freight and 8 tonnes of fuel. Although the aircraft had a deferred defect regarding the flap load relief system, which limited the maximum flap setting to 30, the crew had planned the approach accordingly. Following an initial plan for a Category III autoland, the crew transitioned to a manual landing by the co-pilot after weather conditions improved and Low Visibility Procedures were cancelled.
Upon landing, the aircraft decelerated normally using autobrake 2 and idle reverse thrust. As the aircraft's speed dropped to approximately 60 kt, the co-pilot transferred control to the commander. In an attempt to disengage the autobrake system, the commander applied the brake pedals. After a second, more forceful application, the aircraft experienced a sudden shudder and a left-wing-low roll as the lower part of the left main landing gear detached.
The pilot attempted to maintain the centerline using the steering tiller, but the aircraft eventually stopped off the centerline, supported by the right main gear, the remains of the left gear leg, and the lower cowl of the left engine. Following reports of smoke from a nearby aircraft, the commander shut down both engines due to fears of a fire. Emergency responders arrived on the scene, and the crew was evacuated safely. No fatalities or injuries were reported during the incident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the structural failure was the commander's forceful application of the brake pedals to disengage the autobrake system, which coincided with the detachment of the left main landing gear leg.