Casualties unknown

1986-01-23: Cessna 310J (N12DS) — Opa Locka, FL

Opa Locka, FL, US

On January 23, 1986, a Cessna 310J (registration N12DS) was involved in an aviation accident near Opa Locka, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The mechanic who performed the maintenance failed to properly repair the gear and also failed to complete the required record entries. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that the left main landing gear collapsed upon landing after two prior repairs. Investigation revealed an out-of-alignment replacement bracket prevented full extension and locking, due to improper repair and incomplete records.

Incident Overview

A pilot and aircraft owner reported that the left main landing gear collapsed upon landing, marking the third such occurrence. The gear had been repaired twice previously after similar collapses on landing. According to the pilot, he had just retrieved the aircraft from the mechanic who performed the most recent repair. During the first landing after that repair, the left gear collapsed again.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the left gear assembly revealed that the attach bracket had been recently replaced. However, the bracket was found to be misaligned. This misalignment prevented the left landing gear from extending fully and locking into position, leading to the collapse upon touchdown.

Maintenance Issues

The mechanic responsible for the repair failed to properly correct the underlying issue, as the replacement bracket was installed out of alignment. Additionally, the mechanic did not complete the required maintenance record entries, as specified by regulations.

Conclusion

The incident was attributed to the mechanic's failure to perform an adequate repair and to document the work properly.

Probable cause

The mechanic who performed the maintenance failed to properly repair the gear and also failed to complete the required record entries.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010110X00223. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.