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Aircraft damage following landing on deflated tires (ZK-BMQ)

Faleolo, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa)Landing (descent or approach)

On December 4, 1960, a Percival P.50 Prince (registration ZK-BMQ) operated by Polynesian Airline of Samoa - Polynesian Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Faleolo, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa) during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact reason for the tire deflation could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft sustained significant damage after completing a landing on deflated tires, resulting in a total loss of the airframe.

What happened

During the final phase of flight, an aircraft arrived at its destination and performed a landing. Upon touchdown, it was discovered that the aircraft's tires were completely flat. The specific reason for the loss of tire pressure remained undetermined following the event.

As a result of the landing on deflated rubber, the aircraft sustained extensive structural damage. While there were no injuries reported among the occupants, the damage to the airframe was so severe that the vessel was declared a total loss and was deemed beyond repair.

Findings

  • The aircraft landed with deflated tires.
  • The cause of the tire deflation was unknown at the time of the report.

Probable cause

The exact reason for the tire deflation could not be determined.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Dec 1960 Percival P.50 Prince accident near Faleolo, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa)?

An aircraft sustained significant damage after completing a landing on deflated tires, resulting in a total loss of the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Dec 1960 Percival P.50 Prince accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Dec 1960 involved a Percival P.50 Prince, registration ZK-BMQ, operated by Polynesian Airline of Samoa - Polynesian Airlines, at Faleolo, Samoa Islands (Western Samoa).

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact reason for the tire deflation could not be determined.

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