Aircraft ground impact near Land's End Airport

No fatalities • Land's End, United Kingdom • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft struck the ground short of the runway during its final approach to Land's End Airport, resulting in significant damage but no fatalities.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight toward Land's End Airport, a twin engine aircraft descended below the necessary altitude and made contact with the terrain before reaching the runway. The impact occurred short of the landing strip.

As a result of the collision with the ground, the left main landing gear was completely severed from the airframe. The subsequent movement of the aircraft caused both wings on the left side to suffer partial structural failure through shearing.

Findings

  • There were zero fatalities and no injuries reported following the incident.
  • The aircraft sustained damage so extensive that it was declared a total loss.
  • The primary factor in the accident was that the aircraft was too low during its approach to the airport.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to an insufficient altitude during the final approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1961-12-12 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident near Land's End, United Kingdom?

A twin-engine aircraft struck the ground short of the runway during its final approach to Land's End Airport, resulting in significant damage but no fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1961-12-12 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1961-12-12 involved a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide, registration G-AKZB, operated by British European Airways - BEA, at Land's End, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to an insufficient altitude during the final approach.

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