Aircraft ditching in River Tay following landing bounce

No fatalities • Dundee, United Kingdom • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft performing a go-around at Dundee Airport struck a wall and ditched in the River Tay after a landing bounce caused a loss of directional control.

What happened

Following a routine flight from Edinburgh, the pilot attempted a visual approach to Runway 28 at Dundee. During the landing phase, the aircraft type experienced a float during the flare, resulting in a light bounce upon touchdown. Immediately following this bounce, the aircraft began to yaw and roll toward the left. Although the pilot applied full right rudder and attempted to initiate a go-around by increasing power, the left wing made contact with the runway surface.

This impact caused a rapid leftward yaw, leading the aircraft to strike a low wall. The pilot subsequently reduced engine power, and the aircraft ditched in the River Tay, coming to a stop roughly 10 metres from the riverbank. The fuselage remained partially above the water level. While the pilot and passengers successfully evacuated through the main cabin door and waited on the wing for rescue, the evacuation process was slowed because the airport's hovercraft could only transport two individuals at a time. As a result of the delay, the pilot and passengers experienced mild hypothermia.

Findings

Investigation into the incident indicates that the aircraft's left wing struck the ground during a go-around attempt following a landing bounce. The pilot's application of full right rudder was insufficient to counteract the leftward yaw and roll that occurred after the initial touchdown instability.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost directional control during a go-around attempt after a landing bounce caused the left wing to strike the runway.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-10-24 Socata TBM-700 accident near Dundee, United Kingdom?

An aircraft performing a go-around at Dundee Airport struck a wall and ditched in the River Tay after a landing bounce caused a loss of directional control.

Were there any fatalities in the 2003-10-24 Socata TBM-700 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-10-24 involved a Socata TBM-700, registration N700VA, operated by Private United States of America, at Dundee, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost directional control during a go-around attempt after a landing bounce caused the left wing to strike the runway.

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