Undercarriage collapse during landing at Andorra-La Seu d'Urgell Airport

No fatalities • Andorra-La Seu d'Urgell, Spain • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft experienced a landing gear failure and veered off the runway after an electrical malfunction during its approach to Andorra.

What happened

A private flight departing from Alicante-Mutxamel Airport for Andorra was involved in an accident upon arrival at Andorra-La Seu d'Urgell Airport. The flight, which included one pilot and four passengers, was cruising at 12,500 feet when the pilot notified air traffic control of an ongoing electrical issue. In response to the malfunction, the pilot began a descent toward the destination.

Shortly after the initial report, the aircraft suffered a complete failure of its electrical system. Despite this loss of power, the pilot proceeded with the approach to runway 21. Upon making contact with the runway surface, the landing gear collapsed. This caused the twin engine airplane to deviate from the runway centerline to the right, eventually coming to a stop in a nearby grassy field. There were zero fatalities and zero injuries among the five people on board, though the aircraft was determined to be a total loss.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a progressive electrical failure, moving from reported issues to a total system loss during the descent.
  • The primary mechanical failure occurred when the undercarriage collapsed immediately following touchdown.

Probable cause

A total electrical system failure preceded the collapse of the landing gear during the landing roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2016-04-26 Swearingen SA226T Merlin III accident near Andorra-La Seu d'Urgell, Spain?

A twin-engine aircraft experienced a landing gear failure and veered off the runway after an electrical malfunction during its approach to Andorra.

Were there any fatalities in the 2016-04-26 Swearingen SA226T Merlin III accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2016-04-26 involved a Swearingen SA226T Merlin III, registration N125WG, operated by Medelair, at Andorra-La Seu d'Urgell, Spain.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A total electrical system failure preceded the collapse of the landing gear during the landing roll.

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