On July 26, 1995, a Douglas DC-9 (registration 5N-BBA) operated by ADC Airlines - Aviation Development Company was involved in an aviation accident near Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne, Liberia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: In poor weather conditions, the crew continued the approach below the minimum safe altitude until the aircraft impacted terrain short of runway threshold. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft landed short of the runway at Monrovia's James Spriggs Payne Airport during heavy rain, resulting in the undercarriage being torn off. All 91 occupants evacuated safely.
Accident Overview
An aircraft approaching Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne Airport experienced a landing accident in poor weather conditions. The approach was conducted with visibility limited by heavy rainfall. On final approach, the aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold, causing the undercarriage to tear off. The aircraft then slid on its belly for approximately 500 meters before coming to rest on the runway.
Aircraft Damage and Occupant Status
The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was declared beyond repair. All 91 occupants on board evacuated the aircraft safely without reported injuries.
Investigation Findings
The investigation into the accident determined the probable cause. The official finding stated that in poor weather conditions, the crew continued the approach below the minimum safe altitude until the aircraft impacted terrain short of the runway threshold. The lack of visibility caused by heavy rainfall was cited as a contributing factor. The report further noted that the crew should have made the decision to initiate a go-around procedure since the landing was obviously missed.
What happened in the 26 Jul 1995 Douglas DC-9 accident near Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne, Liberia?
An aircraft landed short of the runway at Monrovia's James Spriggs Payne Airport during heavy rain, resulting in the undercarriage being torn off. All 91 occupants evacuated safely.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Jul 1995 Douglas DC-9 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Jul 1995 involved a Douglas DC-9, registration 5N-BBA, operated by ADC Airlines - Aviation Development Company, at Monrovia-James Spriggs Payne, Liberia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
In poor weather conditions, the crew continued the approach below the minimum safe altitude until the aircraft impacted terrain short of runway threshold. The lack of visibility caused by the heavy rain falls remains a contributing factor, but the crew should have made the decision to initiate a go-around procedure…
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