Landing gear collapse during arrival in Tirana

Casualties unknown • Tirana Flugplatz (LATI), Albanien, CH

A Beechcraft Bonanza registered in Switzerland sustained heavy damage after its landing gear collapsed during an approach to Tirana International Airport.

What happened

On September 28, 2021, at 14:08 UTC, a Beech Aircraft Corporation V35 Bonanza, registered as HB-EFH, was performing a private flight from Portoroz, Slovenia, to Tirana, Albania. During the landing phase at Tirana International Airport (LATI), the aircraft's landing gear collapsed. The impact caused the aircraft to come to a halt on the paved runway while resting on its fuselage.

The investigation

The investigation into the incident was conducted by the Albanian National Body of Air Accident and Incident Investigation in Civil Aviation (OKIIA). The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the aircraft upon touchdown and the sequence of events leading to the structural failure of the gear. The aircraft, owned by Christian Charity Flyers, was carrying a total of four occupants, including the pilot.

Findings

There were no injuries reported among the pilot or the three passengers. While the occupants escaped unharmed, the Beechcraft V35 sustained heavy damage as a result of the fuselage striking the runway surface. The primary factor in the accident was the collapse of the landing gear during the landing roll.

Probable cause

The landing gear failed during the landing process, causing the aircraft to slide on its fuselage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-09-28 BEECH AIRCRAFT CORPORATION V35 accident near Tirana Flugplatz (LATI), Albanien, CH?

A Beechcraft Bonanza registered in Switzerland sustained heavy damage after its landing gear collapsed during an approach to Tirana International Airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-09-28 involved a BEECH AIRCRAFT CORPORATION V35, registration HB-EFH, at Tirana Flugplatz (LATI), Albanien, CH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The landing gear failed during the landing process, causing the aircraft to slide on its fuselage.

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