No fatalities

2014-03-15: Cessna 303 Crusader (N303W) — Private United States of America — Barcelonnette-Saint-Pons, France

Barcelonnette-Saint-Pons, FranceLanding (descent or approach)

On March 15, 2014, a Cessna 303 Crusader (registration N303W) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Barcelonnette-Saint-Pons, France during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the consequence of the decision of the pilot to continue an unstabilized approach, resulting in a hard landing and the rupture of the left main gear upon touchdown. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781193678Data APIEditorial standards

During an approach to Barcelonnette-Saint-Pons Airport, a hard landing caused the left main landing gear to collapse. The aircraft veered left, lost its right main gear, and came to rest. All five occupants evacuated uninjured.

Approach and Landing

A pilot flying from Cannes-Mandelieu Airport initiated an approach to Barcelonnette-Saint-Pons Airport Runway 27 after an uneventful flight. The approach was unstabilized.

Hard Landing and Gear Failure

Upon touchdown, the aircraft landed hard, causing the left main landing gear to collapse. The aircraft then veered left off the runway. During the excursion, the right main gear separated from the aircraft.

Conclusion of the Event

The aircraft came to rest off the runway. There was no fire. All five occupants escaped uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the accident was the consequence of the pilot's decision to continue an unstabilized approach, resulting in a hard landing and rupture of the left main gear upon touchdown.