On April 10, 1973, a Swearingen SA226T Merlin III (registration N5296M) operated by AiResearch Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Montreal-Pierre-Elliott Trudeau (ex Dorval), Canada during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew descended below the MDA in marginal weather conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During a third landing attempt in snow and low visibility at Montreal-Dorval Airport, the crew descended below the glide path, causing the aircraft to hit the ground. All eight occupants evacuated safely, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Incident Overview
While descending to Montreal-Dorval Airport, the crew encountered poor weather conditions and limited visibility due to snowfalls. The captain decided to abandon the first approach and initiated a go-around maneuver. A second attempt to land was also abandoned for similar reasons.
Sequence of Events
During a third attempt to land, the crew descended below the glide path in order to establish visual contact with the ground. The aircraft then struck the ground. On impact, the undercarriage were torn off, and the airplane slid in an open field before coming to rest a few dozen meters short of the runway.
Outcome
All eight occupants evacuated safely. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Probable cause
The crew descended below the MDA in marginal weather conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 10 Apr 1973 Swearingen SA226T Merlin III accident near Montreal-Pierre-Elliott Trudeau (ex Dorval), Canada?
During a third landing attempt in snow and low visibility at Montreal-Dorval Airport, the crew descended below the glide path, causing the aircraft to hit the ground. All eight occupants evacuated safely, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Were there any fatalities in the 10 Apr 1973 Swearingen SA226T Merlin III accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Apr 1973 involved a Swearingen SA226T Merlin III, registration N5296M, operated by AiResearch Aviation, at Montreal-Pierre-Elliott Trudeau (ex Dorval), Canada.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The crew descended below the MDA in marginal weather conditions.
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