On January 25, 1996, a Swearingen SA227 Metro III (registration LV-AOR) operated by Transportes Aéreos Neuquén was involved in an aviation accident near Rincón de Los Sauces, Argentina during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: For unknown reasons, the crew was approaching the airport at an insufficient altitude. Contributing factors: failure of the operator to consider the restrictions at the destination airport, and possible windshear on short final. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On final approach to Rincón de Los Sauces Airport, an aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold, causing the left main gear to collapse. The airplane slid, veered off the runway, and came to rest. All six occupants escaped uninjured, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Sequence of Events
During final approach to Rincón de Los Sauces Airport, the aircraft impacted the ground short of the runway threshold. The left main landing gear collapsed upon impact. The aircraft then slid for several dozen meters before veering off the runway and coming to a stop.
Occupants and Damage
All six occupants on board evacuated the aircraft without injury. However, the aircraft sustained substantial damage and was deemed beyond repair.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was that, for unknown reasons, the crew was approaching the airport at an insufficient altitude. Contributing factors included the failure of the operator to consider the restrictions at the destination airport and the possible presence of windshear on short final.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 Jan 1996 Swearingen SA227 Metro III accident near Rincón de Los Sauces, Argentina?
On final approach to Rincón de Los Sauces Airport, an aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold, causing the left main gear to collapse. The airplane slid, veered off the runway, and came to rest. All six occupants escaped uninjured, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Were there any fatalities in the 25 Jan 1996 Swearingen SA227 Metro III accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Jan 1996 involved a Swearingen SA227 Metro III, registration LV-AOR, operated by Transportes Aéreos Neuquén, at Rincón de Los Sauces, Argentina.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
For unknown reasons, the crew was approaching the airport at an insufficient altitude. Contributing factors: failure of the operator to consider the restrictions at the destination airport, and possible windshear on short final.