On May 5, 1980, an unmodified Gates Learjet Model 23 was being operated by Kennedy Flite Center, Richmond, Virginia, on a flight from Richmond to Louisville, Kentucky, continuing to Gainesville, Florida, and returning to Richmond. The aircraft departed Richmond at 2128 e.d.t. with two pilots aboard. The flight to Louisville was uneventful, as was the subsequent flight to Gainesville with six passengers aboard. The aircraft departed Gainesville at 0152 on May 6, 1980, with only the two pilots aboard. Upon arrival in the Richmond area, the flightcrew requested an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 33 at Byrd International Airport. They were cleared for the approach and landing. Witnesses stated that the aircraft crossed the runway threshold 'a bit high,' started to rock, and rolled inverted as engine thrust increased. The aircraft crashed adjacent to the runway at 0312 and burst into flame. Both pilots were killed. The National Transportation Safety Board determines that the probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and aircraft attitude while transitioning from final approach through flare to touchdown. The pilot's improper technique during roundout may have been due to fatigue, his limited knowledge, training, and experience regarding the flight characteristics of the Learjet aircraft, and distraction caused by concern over the intensity of the approach lighting.


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    Title :

    Aircraft Accident Report - Kennedy Flite Center, Gates Learjet Model 23, N866JS, Byrd International Airport, Richmond, Virginia, May 6, 1980


    Publication date :

    1980


    Size :

    52 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English