Probable cause
The failure of a utility pipe beneath the ramp surface, which caused a localized void in the soil and resulting reduction in the load bearing capability of the ramp.
NTSB analysis
A failed utility pipe caused erosion of the soil beneath the reinforced concrete ramp resulting in a void beneath the ramp surface. When the airplane taxied over this area of the ramp, the left main landing gear penetrated the concrete and sank into the void. Without the support of the soil beneath the concrete, the ramp surface was not strong enough to support the accident airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DCA11FA052 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 6, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Greenville, Mississippi
- Nearest airport
- Mid Delta Regional Airport (GLH)
- Highest injury
- None
Boeing 737
- N-number
- N12221
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 121 (airline)
- Purpose of flight
- Positioning
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.