Incident Overview
Date: Saturday 9 June 1973
Aircraft Type: Boeing 707-327C
Owner/operator: Varig
Registration Number: PP-VLJ
Location: off Rio de Janeiro-Gale?o International Airport, RJ (GIG) –
ÿ Brazil
Phase of Flight: Approach
Status: Destroyed, written off
Casualties: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 4
Component Affected: SpeedbrakeSpeedbrake
Investigating Agency: CENIPACENIPA
Category: Accident
A Boeing 707 freighter experienced a sudden pitch down during an instrument approach to runway 14 due to an incorrect use of the speedbrake on final approach. The spoiler switch cover opening triggered the inboard spoiler, leading to a rapid descent and subsequent water crash.A Boeing 707 freighter experienced a sudden pitch down during an instrument approach to runway 14 due to an incorrect use of the speedbrake on final approach. The spoiler switch cover opening triggered the inboard spoiler, leading to a rapid descent and subsequent water crash.
Description
The Boeing 707 freighter was making an instrument approach to runway 14 with speed brake lever at 45deg. and inboard spoilers deactivated when it was noted that the spoiler switch cover was open. The captain or co-pilot then closed the spoiler switch cover and thus activating the inboard spoiler, causing the aircraft to pitch down. The Boeing descended fast from a height of 70 m, struck approach lights and crashed in the water of Guanabara Bay. Probable cause: Incorrect use of speedbrake on final approach.
Primary Cause
Incorrect use of speedbrake on final approach.Incorrect use of speedbrake on final approach.Share on:
