Aircraft accident involving nose gear impact and post-landing fire

No fatalities • Stockholm-Arlanda, Sweden • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a sudden pitch-down following takeoff, leading to an aborted landing attempt that resulted in structural damage and a subsequent fire.

What happened

During the initial climb phase after departing runway 08, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 10 meters when it experienced an unexpected downward pitch. Despite the co-pilot observing that engine performance and airspeed remained within normal parameters, the captain initiated a go-around to land back on the runway.

The subsequent landing attempt resulted in a heavy impact on the nose gear, causing the aircraft to bounce. Upon the second touchdown, the main landing gear struck the runway with enough force to penetrate the wing structures and fuel tanks. This breach led to significant fuel leakage. Following the impact, the aircraft slid roughly 300 meters along the runway before veering left into a snow-covered field, where it ignited. While the aircraft was destroyed, all 27 occupants managed to evacuate without any fatalities or injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified several contributing elements related to the crew's decision to abort the takeoff and the subsequent loss of control. The following factors were noted:

  • An improper pitch movement occurred immediately after the aircraft left the ground.
  • Potential nitrogen contamination within the hydraulic lines may have hindered rudder functionality.
  • Accumulated ice or snow on the stabilizers may have compromised the stability and controllability of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The crew aborted the takeoff due to perceived instability caused by an unusual pitch configuration during the initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-01-06 Sud-Aviation SE-210 Caravelle accident near Stockholm-Arlanda, Sweden?

An aircraft experienced a sudden pitch-down following takeoff, leading to an aborted landing attempt that resulted in structural damage and a subsequent fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-01-06 Sud-Aviation SE-210 Caravelle accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-01-06 involved a Sud-Aviation SE-210 Caravelle, registration SE-DEC, operated by Transwede, at Stockholm-Arlanda, Sweden.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew aborted the takeoff due to perceived instability caused by an unusual pitch configuration during the initial climb.

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