On June 10, 1983, a Cessna T210L (registration N30115) was involved in an aviation accident near Indianapolis, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land with full tip tanks, contrary to placarded restrictions, which induced structural overload and nose gear damage. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced nose gear porpoising and rim flange damage upon landing with full tip tanks, violating placarded weight restrictions.
What happened
During the landing phase of flight, the pilot reported that the aircraft porpoised two times on the nose gear. Subsequent inspection revealed that pieces had broken off the flange on the nose gear tire rim in several places.
The investigation noted that the landing was conducted with full tip tanks. The fuel selector is placarded to prohibit this specific fuel loading configuration for landing operations. The overload induced by the full tip tanks resulted in a downward bending of the wing spars and wrinkling of the wing skins.
The investigation
Examination of the aircraft confirmed structural deformation consistent with an overweight condition. The downward bending of the wing spars was identified as a direct result of the excessive weight carried in the tip tanks during the landing maneuver.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land with full tip tanks, contrary to placarded restrictions, which induced structural overload and nose gear damage.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 10 Jun 1983 Cessna T210L accident near Indianapolis, IN?
An aircraft experienced nose gear porpoising and rim flange damage upon landing with full tip tanks, violating placarded weight restrictions.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Jun 1983 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N30115, at Indianapolis, IN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to land with full tip tanks, contrary to placarded restrictions, which induced structural overload and nose gear damage.
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