Crash of a Swearingen SA226AC Metro II in Río Gallegos
Date & Time:
Nov 23, 1998 at 1445 LT
Registration:
LV-WDV
Survivors:
Yes
Schedule:
Lago Argentino - Río Gallegos
MSN:
TC-271
YOM:
1978
Crew on board:
2
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
5
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
0
Circumstances:
After takeoff from Lago Argentino Airport, a red warning light came on in the cockpit panel, informing the crew about the incomplete retraction of the left main gear. The crew proceeded to a visual inspection and after confirmation that the left main gear was properly secured in its wheel well, the crew decided to continue to Río Gallegos. On approach, the left main gear did not deploy. After the crew failed to extend it manually, he raised the other landing gear and completed a belly landing. On short final, just prior to flare, both engines were shut down and their propellers were feathered. The aircraft landed on its belly, slid for few dozen metres and came to rest. All seven occupants escaped uninjured and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Probable cause:
The crew completed a belly landing after it was impossible to extend the left main gear due to the deformation and fracture of the brace support of the gear's extension system. The following contributing factors were reported:
- The left main gear suffered previous incident,
- Marginal weather conditions with rain falls and unfavorable wind component,
- The crew started operations with know deficiencies,
- Inappropriate maintenance and technical controls.
- The left main gear suffered previous incident,
- Marginal weather conditions with rain falls and unfavorable wind component,
- The crew started operations with know deficiencies,
- Inappropriate maintenance and technical controls.
