No fatalities

2007-10-17: Learjet 35 (N31MC) — JaGee Ventures — Goodland, United States of America

Goodland, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 17, 2007, a Learjet 35 (registration N31MC) operated by JaGee Ventures was involved in an aviation accident near Goodland, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781197841Data APIEditorial standards

Flight crew exited clouds 250 ft left of runway, experienced hard roll inputs, and airplane impacted ground. Investigation found yaw damper and spoileron computer anomalies but manufacturer stated they would not prevent control.

Accident Overview

The flight crew reported exiting clouds approximately 250 feet above ground level, slightly left of the runway centerline. The pilot not flying took control of the airplane and adjusted the course to the right. The airplane then rolled hard to the right, and when the pilot corrected to the left, it rolled hard to the left. The airplane impacted the ground in a right wing low attitude, resulting in substantial damage.

Sequence of Events

According to the flight crew, after exiting the clouds, the pilot not flying assumed control and initiated a right course correction. The airplane responded with a hard roll to the right. Subsequent corrective input to the left resulted in a hard roll to the left. Control was not regained, and the airplane struck the ground in a right-wing-low orientation.

System Examination

Further examination and testing revealed anomalies with the yaw damper and spoileron computer. However, according to the manufacturer, these anomalies would not have prevented control of the airplane. The manufacturer indicated that with an inoperative spoileron system, greater control wheel displacement and force would be required to achieve a desired roll rate. This would result in a slightly higher workload for the pilot, particularly in turbulence or crosswind conditions. An examination of the remaining systems revealed no anomalies.

Probable Cause

The probable cause, as determined by the official investigation, is the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the landing.