Russian Yak 3 Wing Clips Hydraulic Lift During Landing at Airshow

**kellyhound** · #1 ● 04-04-2018, 03:38 PM

Wings over Wanaka stands as one of New Zealand's highly anticipated airshows, with a rich history dating back to its inception in 1988. This biennial extravaganza consistently draws an impressive crowd of 50,000 to 100,000 enthusiastic spectators and showcases an array of aircraft from over five air forces worldwide. While modern jets frequently take center stage, Wings over Wanaka also pays homage to the past by featuring several vintage warbirds from the eras of World War I and II.

However, this year's opening act took an unexpected turn. Arthur Dovey, a seasoned former airline pilot, took to the skies in his rare Russian Yak 3, treating the audience to a spectacular aerial display. The breathtaking performance left onlookers in awe. Yet, it was the landing that held everyone's breath.

Descending onto the grass adjacent to the runway at approximately 10 am, Dovey executed a flawless touchdown. However, a misjudgment came into play when he encountered a hydraulic lift positioned alongside the runway. The Yak 3's wing clipped the lift, resulting in a sudden and violent spin of the fuselage. Despite the dramatic appearance, Dovey managed to exit the cockpit under his own power and thankfully escaped unharmed.

Regrettably, the Yak 3 bore the brunt of the impact, sustaining significant damage. As of now, mechanics are diligently inspecting the undercarriage. While there is a possibility of salvage, the event's general manager expressed concerns over the associated costs, noting, "they can all be rebuilt, but it's the cost factor that comes into play."