Aircraft belly landing following takeoff collision in Brazil

No fatalities • Rio Branco, Brazil • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft transporting cargo collided with a vehicle during takeoff from Rio Branco, resulting in an emergency belly landing and total hull loss.

What happened

During a cargo flight departing from Rio Branco toward Cruzeiro do Sul, the aircraft encountered a significant incident during its initial climb. While performing the takeoff maneuver, the plane struck a truck on the runway or taxiway area. Following this impact, the crew made the decision to abort the mission and return to the airfield.

During the emergency return, the flight crew discovered that one of the primary landing gear assemblies failed to extend. To manage the weight and safety of the aircraft, the crew proceeded to burn off remaining fuel and discarded 30 sacks of the cargo, which consisted of rice and beans. The aircraft ultimately performed a belly landing. While there were no injuries reported among the crew, the impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair.

Findings

  • The sequence of events began with a collision between the plane and a truck during the takeoff phase.
  • A mechanical failure involving the inability to lower the main landing gear necessitated an emergency landing procedure.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck a truck during takeoff, leading to a landing gear malfunction that forced an emergency belly landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-03-16 De Havilland DHC-5 Buffalo accident near Rio Branco, Brazil?

An aircraft transporting cargo collided with a vehicle during takeoff from Rio Branco, resulting in an emergency belly landing and total hull loss.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-03-16 De Havilland DHC-5 Buffalo accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-03-16 involved a De Havilland DHC-5 Buffalo, registration 2358, operated by Brazilian Air Force - Força Aérea Brasileira (1941-), at Rio Branco, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck a truck during takeoff, leading to a landing gear malfunction that forced an emergency belly landing.

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