What happened
A flight intended to transport approximately 4,800 gallons of fuel oil to a distant mining location experienced a significant structural failure during its landing phase. The aircraft, which had a calculated landing weight of 92,260 pounds, was approaching an airstrip measuring 5,400 feet in length and 100 feet in width. This runway was located in a hilly region covered in snow and featured a 7 percent uphill gradient.
At the time of the approach, the area was experiencing light snow showers and visibility was limited to 2 miles. The pilot reported that flat light conditions made it extremely challenging to distinguish the runway surface from the surrounding terrain as the aircraft crossed the threshold. While the initial contact with the runway was described as a firm touchdown, it was initially believed to be within safe limits. However, immediately following this contact, the left wing separated from the fuselage at the attachment point. This failure caused the aircraft to veer toward the left, ultimately exiting the left side of the runway.
Findings
- The presence of flat light conditions and snow showers significantly hindered the pilot's ability to visually identify the runway surface.
- The structural failure occurred at the junction where the wing meets the fuselage during the landing roll.