Aircraft accident at Diavik Airport during final approach

No fatalities • Diavik, Canada • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft sustained heavy damage and caught fire after striking the ground short of the runway threshold at Diavik Airport.

What happened

During the final approach to Diavik Airport, a four-engine aircraft descended below the required altitude. This low approach resulted in the landing gear making contact with the terrain approximately one meter before reaching the threshold of runway 10.

The force of the impact caused the undercarriage to be ripped from the airframe. Following the initial contact, the aircraft slid along the runway for nearly 300 meters. During this excursion, the aircraft lost its right wing and began a right-hand rotation. The sequence concluded when the aircraft came to a halt and ignited into a fire.

There were two injuries reported, both of which were classified as minor, and both the pilot and the crew successfully evacuated the wreckage. The aircraft was a total loss.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating at an altitude that was too low during the final approach phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold due to an insufficient approach altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-08-28 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident near Diavik, Canada?

A four-engine aircraft sustained heavy damage and caught fire after striking the ground short of the runway threshold at Diavik Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-08-28 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-08-28 involved a Douglas C-54 Skymaster, registration C-GQIC, operated by Buffalo Airways, at Diavik, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold due to an insufficient approach altitude.

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