Aircraft impact short of runway at Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport

No fatalities • Bordeaux-Mérignac, France • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground during its final approach to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport due to low visibility.

What happened

During an approach to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport, the flight crew encountered significant visibility restrictions caused by dense fog. While performing the final approach phase of the flight, the aircraft type descended below the required altitude and struck the terrain a few hundred yards before reaching the runway threshold.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were three injuries reported among the crew members on board, but no fatalities occurred during the accident.

Findings

  • The primary factor contributing to the accident was poor visibility caused by fog conditions at the time of arrival.
  • The flight path was insufficient in altitude, leading to a ground impact prior to reaching the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to the crew's low approach altitude during heavy fog.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1955-09-21 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Bordeaux-Mérignac, France?

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground during its final approach to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport due to low visibility.

Were there any fatalities in the 1955-09-21 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 1955-09-21 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration F-BCYU, operated by Air France, at Bordeaux-Mérignac, France.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to the crew's low approach altitude during heavy fog.

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