No fatalities

1994-05-07: Tupolev TU-134 (RA-65976) — Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines — Arkhangelsk-Talagi, Russia

Arkhangelsk-Talagi, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 7, 1994, a Tupolev TU-134 (registration RA-65976) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Arkhangelsk-Talagi, Russia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right main gear could not be lowered because of a breakage of the filling connection of the hydraulic tank due to metal fatigue while the aircraft was taxiing at Moscow-Sheremetyevo Airport. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781209013Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered RA-65976
Aircraft registered RA-65976. Photo: Alex Beltyukov / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

On approach to Arkhangelsk-Talagi, a crew encountered landing gear problems. After multiple attempts, only the right main gear remained stuck. The captain landed, the aircraft slid and veered off runway. All 62 occupants escaped uninjured; aircraft damaged beyond repair.

Incident

During approach to Arkhangelsk-Talagi Airport, the flight crew experienced technical difficulties with the landing gear. The landing gear could not be lowered normally. The crew made several manual attempts to extend the gear. Ultimately, only the right main landing gear remained retracted and stuck in its wheel well. The captain decided to proceed with the landing in this configuration. After touchdown, the aircraft slid on the runway surface, veered off the paved area, and came to rest in a grassy area adjacent to the runway.

Occupant Status

All 62 occupants on board evacuated the aircraft without injury. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.

Aircraft Damage

The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was deemed beyond economical repair.

Investigation and Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the right main gear could not be lowered because of a breakage of the filling connection of the hydraulic tank. This breakage was due to metal fatigue and occurred while the aircraft was taxiing at Moscow-Sheremetyevo Airport. The fitting was blown out under hydraulic pressure, which damaged adjacent hydraulic lines. This led to a loss of hydraulic fluid and a drop in oil pressure, preventing the right main gear from extending properly.