Landing gear collapse at Oborso Airport

No fatalities • Oborso, Ethiopia • Landing (descent or approach)

A landing gear failure caused an aircraft to slide off the runway at Oborso Airport, resulting in a write-off but no injuries.

What happened

During the landing phase on runway 09 at Oborso Airport, the right main gear of the aircraft failed upon contact with the surface. Following the collapse of the landing gear, the crew attempted to retract the undercarriage. However, the structural failure caused the plane to slide along its belly across the runway.

The aircraft eventually veered off the paved surface and came to a stop against an anthill. Despite the significant impact and the extent of the damage, all eight occupants managed to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The aircraft was subsequently determined to be a total loss due to the severity of the structural damage.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the failure of the right main gear during touchdown. The specific underlying reason for this mechanical failure remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The collapse of the right main landing gear upon touchdown led to the aircraft sliding off the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1976-12-14 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Oborso, Ethiopia?

A landing gear failure caused an aircraft to slide off the runway at Oborso Airport, resulting in a write-off but no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1976-12-14 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 1976-12-14 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration ET-AEJ, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, at Oborso, Ethiopia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse of the right main landing gear upon touchdown led to the aircraft sliding off the runway.

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