Aircraft landing gear collapse during touchdown

No fatalities • San Jose, Philippines • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a structural failure of its left main landing gear while landing, resulting in significant damage to the airframe.

What happened

During the landing phase of the flight, the aircraft's left main gear suffered a mechanical collapse immediately upon touchdown. Following the failure of the landing gear, the plane continued to move across the ground, sliding for several yards before the movement ceased.

Despite the impact and subsequent slide, there were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board. However, the structural damage sustained during the incident was severe enough that the aircraft was declared a total loss and was damaged beyond repair.

Findings

Official investigations into the incident concluded that the primary factor leading to the accident was the failure of the left main gear at the moment of landing.

Probable cause

The collapse of the left main landing gear during touchdown caused the aircraft to slide and sustain irreparable damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1965-01-21 Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) accident near San Jose, Philippines?

An aircraft experienced a structural failure of its left main landing gear while landing, resulting in significant damage to the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 1965-01-21 Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1965-01-21 involved a Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3), registration PI-C945, operated by Filipinas Orient Airways (Fairways), at San Jose, Philippines.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse of the left main landing gear during touchdown caused the aircraft to slide and sustain irreparable damage.

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