What happened
The pilot reported experiencing difficulties with the aircraft's navigation radio during the flight. Due to this equipment malfunction, he lost track of his position and inadvertently overflew his intended destination airport. Following the overflight, the pilot became disoriented.
As the situation progressed, one of the fuel tanks was exhausted. With fuel levels critically low, the pilot decided to execute a precautionary landing. Upon touchdown, the nose landing gear collapsed under the stress of the impact. The aircraft subsequently settled onto its wing and propeller, resulting in significant damage to the lower fuselage and propulsion system.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the landing gear during the forced landing. Examination confirmed that the nose gear collapsed upon contact with the ground, leading to the aircraft coming to rest on its side. The fuel exhaustion was attributed to the pilot's disorientation and navigation errors rather than a mechanical fuel system defect.
Findings
- Navigation radio failure led to loss of situational awareness.
- Pilot became disoriented after overflying the destination.
- One fuel tank ran dry due to extended flight time.
- Nose gear collapse during landing caused aircraft to settle on wing and propeller.