Engine failure during takeoff at Aberdeen Airport

No fatalities • Aberdeen-Dyce, United Kingdom • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced an engine failure immediately after takeoff from Aberdeen Airport, resulting in a crash into a field and a collision with a vehicle.

What happened

On 24 December 2002, at approximately 0743 hrs, the crew of OY-BPH, a turboprop aircraft, was cleared for takeoff from Runway 16 at Aberdeen Airport. The flight was intended to proceed directly to Denmark. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft reached its rotation speed, and the co-pilot rotated the aircraft to a pitch of 12 to 15 degrees.

Immediately after leaving the ground, the aircraft began yawing to the right, and the crew noticed the smell of smoke. The co-pilot identified an engine failure and attempted to maintain control using rudder and aileron inputs. The commander noted a significant roll to the right and observed abnormal Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) readings, specifically noting that the No 2 engine was at 600°C while the No 1 engine exceeded 650°C. The commander also noted a fuel bypass light on the left engine.

As the aircraft continued to bank, the co-pilot reported a loss of control. The aircraft struck the ground with its right wing, sliding through a field and a fence before coming to rest on a road. During the excursion, the aircraft struck a car. The crew evacuated the aircraft via the left door. Although the right wing caught fire, emergency services arrived quickly, and it was confirmed that there were no serious injuries to the crew or the occupants of the vehicle.

Findings

  • The crew experienced an engine failure on the right engine shortly after rotation.
  • The commander reported hearing a sound similar to a compressor stall coming from the right engine.
  • The aircraft's flight path led it off the airfield into a nearby field and onto a public road.

Probable cause

An engine failure occurred immediately after rotation, causing the aircraft to lose control and impact the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-12-24 Swearingen SA227 Metro III accident near Aberdeen-Dyce, United Kingdom?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure immediately after takeoff from Aberdeen Airport, resulting in a crash into a field and a collision with a vehicle.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-12-24 Swearingen SA227 Metro III accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-12-24 involved a Swearingen SA227 Metro III, registration OY-BPH, operated by North Flying, at Aberdeen-Dyce, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine failure occurred immediately after rotation, causing the aircraft to lose control and impact the ground.

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