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Aircraft crash near Narsarsuaq Airport (N587JA)

Narsarsuaq, GreenlandLanding (descent or approach)

On January 3, 1969, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration N587JA) operated by General Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Narsarsuaq, Greenland during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to being too low during the final approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed during its final approach to Narsarsuaq Airport, resulting in the destruction of the plane and injuries to the pilot.

What happened

During a flight intended to ferry the aircraft to the United States, a twin-engine airplane was performing its final approach to Narsarsuaq Airport. While descending toward the runway, the aircraft maintained an altitude that was too low, leading to an impact with the ground several kilometers before reaching the airfield.

The collision resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. The pilot sustained injuries during the accident, though no other fatalities were reported.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating at an insufficient altitude during the approach phase.
  • The crash occurred a short distance from the runway threshold.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to being too low during the final approach.
Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jan 1969 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Narsarsuaq, Greenland?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed during its final approach to Narsarsuaq Airport, resulting in the destruction of the plane and injuries to the pilot.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jan 1969 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jan 1969 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration N587JA, operated by General Airlines, at Narsarsuaq, Greenland.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to being too low during the final approach.

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