No fatalities

1999-01-28: McDonnell Douglas MD-82 (I-DAVN) — Alitalia - Linee Aeree Italiane — Catania, Italy

Catania, ItalyLanding (descent or approach)

On January 28, 1999, a McDonnell Douglas MD-82 (registration I-DAVN) operated by Alitalia - Linee Aeree Italiane was involved in an aviation accident near Catania, Italy during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the crew encountered windshear during the last portion of the flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781204587Data APIEditorial standards

On short final at night, an aircraft became unstable at about 100 feet. The captain initiated a go-around, but the aircraft descended, struck the runway, and collapsed its left main gear. All 84 occupants escaped uninjured; the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Incident Overview

On short final to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport during nighttime operations, the aircraft became unstable at a height of approximately 100 feet. The captain decided to execute a go-around procedure and increased power on both engines. Despite this action, the aircraft continued to descend and struck the runway surface with a relatively high positive acceleration.

Sequence of Events

Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear collapsed. The aircraft then slid along the runway for several hundred meters before coming to rest. All 84 occupants on board evacuated without injury. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it beyond repair.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the crew likely encountered windshear during the final portion of the flight.