Incident Description
During the demonstration of a short field landing technique in strong crosswinds, the aircraft developed an elevated sink rate while nearing the ground. This resulted in a touchdown that was harder than normal. The impact caused the left main landing gear to break free from the aircraft structure. The instructor was able to initiate and execute a go-around maneuver, with the damaged gear remaining attached only by the brake line.
Emergency Response
Following the go-around, the instructor engaged in emergency procedure discussions with company personnel. During these communications, the left main gear separated completely from the aircraft and fell into a wooded area. An emergency landing was subsequently performed at Daytona Beach. Upon landing, the airplane came to rest in the grass on the left side of the runway.
Examination Findings
A post-incident examination of the remaining portion of the strut outer barrel was conducted. The inspection revealed an area of fatigue crack propagation that had progressed approximately halfway through the wall diameter. The fatigue was located at the point where the trunnion web joins the barrel.