Post-landing fire involving aircraft at Simferopol Airport

No fatalities • Simferopol, Ukraine • Landing (descent or approach)

A tire explosion during landing at Simferopol Airport led to a fuel leak and subsequent fire, resulting in multiple injuries.

What happened

During operations at Kiev-Borispol Airport, the crew performed an improper taxiing maneuver that resulted in the overheating of the aircraft's tires and braking system. During the subsequent takeoff attempt, the flight was interrupted at a speed of 135 km/h because the crew had not received necessary clearance. Following this aborted procedure, the aircraft was granted permission for a second departure, but the overheating of the brakes and tires recurred during the process.

Upon arriving at Simferopol Airport, a tire on the right main landing gear exploded during touchdown. The resulting debris impacted the lower section of the right wing, causing a puncture in a fuel tank. This led to a fuel spill and the ignition of a fire. The crew successfully brought the aircraft type to a halt on the runway, allowing for an emergency evacuation of all 65 occupants. While there were no fatalities, the incident resulted in 29 injuries among the passengers. The aircraft sustained partial destruction due to the fire.

Findings

Investigation into the event determined that the primary cause was a tire burst during landing, which was preceded by overheating during both an aborted takeoff and taxiing at Kiev-Borispol Airport. Contributing factors included inadequate flight preparation and insufficient training of the crew.

Probable cause

A tire failure caused by overheating during previous ground maneuvers led to a fuel tank puncture and fire upon landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1981-06-28 Tupolev TU-134 accident near Simferopol, Ukraine?

A tire explosion during landing at Simferopol Airport led to a fuel leak and subsequent fire, resulting in multiple injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1981-06-28 Tupolev TU-134 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1981-06-28 involved a Tupolev TU-134, registration CCCP-65871, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Simferopol, Ukraine.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A tire failure caused by overheating during previous ground maneuvers led to a fuel tank puncture and fire upon landing.

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