Aircraft fire following landing gear collapse

No fatalities • Luqa, Malta • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft caught fire after its undercarriage failed during touchdown, resulting in the total loss of the airframe but no injuries.

What happened

During the landing phase of the flight, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure when the undercarriage collapsed upon contact with the runway. This structural failure caused the plane to lose stability and slide across the ground for a distance of several yards.

Following the slide, a fire ignited within the wreckage. Despite the intensity of the flames, all crew members successfully managed to evacuate the cabin before the situation became critical. While the occupants escaped without any reported injuries, the fire resulted in the complete destruction of the aircraft.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the failure of the landing gear at the moment of touchdown.

Probable cause

The collapse of the undercarriage during touchdown led to the subsequent slide and fire.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-10-08 Lockheed P-2 Neptune accident near Luqa, Malta?

An aircraft caught fire after its undercarriage failed during touchdown, resulting in the total loss of the airframe but no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-10-08 Lockheed P-2 Neptune accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1952-10-08 involved a Lockheed P-2 Neptune, registration 127724, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Luqa, Malta.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse of the undercarriage during touchdown led to the subsequent slide and fire.

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