Aircraft crash during missed approach at Detroit-Willow Run Airport

No fatalities • Detroit-Willow Run (Ypsilanti), United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed near Detroit-Willow Run Airport following an aborted landing attempt in poor visibility.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward Detroit-Willow Run Airport, the flight crew encountered challenging meteorological conditions characterized by fog and a low ceiling. In response to these environmental factors, the decision was made to execute a go-around. During this maneuver, the twin engine aircraft struck the ground in the vicinity of the airfield.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. Both individuals on board sustained two serious injuries during the accident.

Findings

Investigation into the crash identified that the primary reason for the impact was a collision with the terrain while performing the missed approach. This was attributed to improper maintenance performed on the aircraft's components.

Specific mechanical issues were noted regarding the flight control systems, specifically involving a frayed and binding elevator tab control system. Records indicated that maintenance work had been carried out on the bracket for the elevator trim tab just one day before the accident occurred.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground during a missed approach due to improper maintenance of the elevator trim tab bracket.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-04-04 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident near Detroit-Willow Run (Ypsilanti), United States of America?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed near Detroit-Willow Run Airport following an aborted landing attempt in poor visibility.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-04-04 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-04-04 involved a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise, registration N321MA, operated by Master Craft Engineering, at Detroit-Willow Run (Ypsilanti), United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground during a missed approach due to improper maintenance of the elevator trim tab bracket.

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