Landing gear collapse during takeoff at Arusha

No fatalities • Arusha, Tanzania • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a left main landing gear failure during its takeoff roll from Arusha, resulting in a runway excursion and structural damage.

What happened

At approximately 12:15, an aircraft departed from the apron at Arusha, preparing for a scheduled flight to Seronera. The flight crew taxied the aircraft to the threshold of runway 27 to begin the departure sequence. According to air traffic control, the beginning of the takeoff roll proceeded without any initial issues.

However, after the aircraft had traveled roughly 500 metres along the runway, the left main landing gear collapsed. This mechanical failure caused the aircraft to veer toward the left side of the runway. The aircraft subsequently slid on its belly and a cargo pod through a grass hedge running parallel to runway 27. The movement continued until the aircraft reached the eastern boundary of the apron.

Findings

While the aircraft sustained significant damage, including impacts to the propellers, the right wing, the fuselage, and the underside structure, the belly cargo pod was entirely destroyed. Debris from the pod was left scattered along the path of the excursion. Despite the impact, there was no fire reported during the incident. All occupants successfully deplaned from the aircraft type without any zero injuries reported.

Probable cause

The collapse of the left main landing gear during the takeoff roll caused the aircraft to veer off the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-11-27 Cessna 406 Caravan accident near Arusha, Tanzania?

An aircraft experienced a left main landing gear failure during its takeoff roll from Arusha, resulting in a runway excursion and structural damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 2004-11-27 Cessna 406 Caravan accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-11-27 involved a Cessna 406 Caravan, registration 5H-RAS, operated by Regional Air Services, at Arusha, Tanzania.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse of the left main landing gear during the takeoff roll caused the aircraft to veer off the runway.

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