Aircraft ground impact following wind gust near runway threshold

No fatalities • Tegucigalpa, Honduras • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control due to wind gusts during its approach, resulting in a wingtip strike and significant damage.

What happened

During the approach phase, the aircraft passed over the threshold of runway 01 traveling at approximately 85 knots. At this moment, a powerful gust of wind intercepted the plane, causing it to climb and veer toward the right, directing its path toward the terminal area.

In an effort to prevent a collision with airport structures, the pilot-in-command initiated a left-hand turn. During this maneuver, the left wingtip made contact with the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to crash in the vicinity of the runway. While the airframe sustained damage beyond repair, all 18 occupants were successfully rescued without reported fatalities.

Findings

  • A sudden and strong gust of wind disrupted the aircraft's flight path near the runway threshold.
  • The pilot's corrective maneuver to avoid terminal structures led to a wingtip strike.

Probable cause

A strong wind gust caused the aircraft to deviate from its path, leading to an emergency maneuver that resulted in a wingtip ground strike.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-11-25 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Tegucigalpa, Honduras?

An aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control due to wind gusts during its approach, resulting in a wingtip strike and significant damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-11-25 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-11-25 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration HR-ANA, operated by SAHSA - Servicios Aéreos de Honduras SA, at Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A strong wind gust caused the aircraft to deviate from its path, leading to an emergency maneuver that resulted in a wingtip ground strike.

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