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2004-06-23: Dornier DO228 (TF-ELH) — Islandsflug — Siglufjörður, Iceland

Siglufjörður, IcelandLanding (descent or approach)

On June 23, 2004, a Dornier DO228 (registration TF-ELH) operated by Islandsflug was involved in an aviation accident near Siglufjörður, Iceland during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Belly landing after the crew failed to follow the approach checklist and failed to lower the landing gear for a second touch-and-go manoeuvre. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781200302Data APIEditorial standards

On a competence control flight to Siglufjörður Airport, the crew performed a touch-and-go but failed to lower the landing gear on the second approach, resulting in a belly landing. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair; both pilots evacuated safely.

Incident Overview

Following an uneventful passenger flight from Reykjavik to Sauðárkrókur, the crew decided to fly to Siglufjörður Airport to perform a competence control flight for that airfield. During the approach in good weather conditions (visibility over 10 km with clouds at 1,500 feet), the captain disconnected the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) to avoid repetitive alarms.

Touch-and-Go Maneuver

After landing on runway 07, the captain intended to perform a touch-and-go. He increased engine power and took off. During the initial climb, the landing gear was raised, and the crew executed a right-hand turn circuit at an altitude of 500 feet.

Second Approach and Accident

Following a second approach to runway 07, the aircraft landed on its belly and slid for 280 metres before coming to rest. Both pilots evacuated safely. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Probable Cause

The official finding states that the belly landing occurred after the crew failed to follow the approach checklist and failed to lower the landing gear for a second touch-and-go maneuver. The following contributing factors were identified:

  • The crew failed to check that the three green lights were ON.
  • The aircraft was unstable on final approach.
  • The captain took over control without knowing how to proceed for the approach.
  • The presence of birds in the vicinity of the runway disturbed the crew.
  • The landing gear alert system was not properly set.
  • The right-hand circuit was completed at a low altitude of 500 feet.

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