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Aircraft Crash at Tortola-Terrance B. Lettsome Airport (N57372)

Tortola-Terrance B. Lettsome, British Virgin IslandsLanding (descent or approach)

On April 5, 1971, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N57372) operated by Vinair (USA) was involved in an aviation accident near Tortola-Terrance B. Lettsome, British Virgin Islands during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew failed to realize the aircraft's altitude was too low during final approach, resulting in the aircraft striking the ground short of the runway threshold. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold at Tortola-Terrance B. Lettsome Airport during final approach. The undercarriages were torn off, and the aircraft belly-landed. All three occupants escaped uninjured, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Incident Overview During final approach to Tortola-Terrance B. Lettsome Airport, an aircraft struck the ground a few meters short of the runway threshold. The crew failed to realize the aircraft's altitude was too low before impact. ## Damage and Outcome The undercarriages were torn off during the initial ground contact, causing the aircraft to belly-land before coming to rest. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair. All three occupants escaped the incident uninjured. ## Contributing Factors The investigation noted that the crew failed to recognize that the aircraft's altitude was too low during the final approach phase, leading to the premature ground contact.

Probable cause

The crew failed to realize the aircraft's altitude was too low during final approach, resulting in the aircraft striking the ground short of the runway threshold.

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