Right main gear collapse during landing at Riberalta Airport

No fatalities • Riberalta, Bolivia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a structural failure of its landing gear upon touchdown at Riberalta Airport, resulting in a belly landing and significant airframe damage.

What happened

During the landing phase at Riberalta Airport, the right main gear of the aircraft suffered a sudden collapse immediately following touchdown. This mechanical failure caused the plane to settle onto its undercarriage belly, leading to a sliding motion across the runway surface for several meters before the movement ceased.

Despite the impact and subsequent slide, all three crew members on board were able to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The aircraft itself sustained extensive damage during the incident and was subsequently declared a total loss.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident concluded that the primary factor was the failure of the right main gear at the moment of landing. The specific underlying reason for this structural collapse remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The failure of the right main landing gear during touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-06-09 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Riberalta, Bolivia?

An aircraft experienced a structural failure of its landing gear upon touchdown at Riberalta Airport, resulting in a belly landing and significant airframe damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-06-09 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-06-09 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration CP-855, operated by Frigorifico Santa Rita, at Riberalta, Bolivia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the right main landing gear during touchdown.

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