Aircraft lightning strike during approach to Aguadilla

No fatalities • Aguadilla-Rafael Hernández, Puerto Rico • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained significant damage after being struck by lightning during its final approach to Aguadilla-Rafael Hernández Airport.

What happened

During the approach phase to Aguadilla-Rafael Hernández Airport, the flight crew encountered severe weather characterized by thunderstorms and intense rainfall. While the aircraft was on its final approach, it was struck by lightning. Following the strike, the crew proceeded with the descent, but the impact resulted in a heavy landing. The aircraft subsequently bounced on the runway before coming to a complete stop on the main strip.

Findings

  • The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
  • There were zero fatalities and zero injuries among the four occupants on board.
  • The primary contributing factor was the lightning strike encountered during heavy thunderstorm activity.

Probable cause

The aircraft was struck by lightning during a thunderstorm approach, leading to a hard landing and subsequent structural damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-12-01 Canadair CL-44 accident near Aguadilla-Rafael Hernández, Puerto Rico?

An aircraft sustained significant damage after being struck by lightning during its final approach to Aguadilla-Rafael Hernández Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1992-12-01 Canadair CL-44 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-12-01 involved a Canadair CL-44, registration N100BB, operated by Tradewinds Airlines, at Aguadilla-Rafael Hernández, Puerto Rico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was struck by lightning during a thunderstorm approach, leading to a hard landing and subsequent structural damage.

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