On August 7, 1986, a Cessna 177RG (registration N45188) was involved in an aviation accident near San Jose, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft landed with its landing gear partially extended. Tower personnel attempted to warn the pilot via radio and light gun signals, but the landing continued. Post-accident examination found no failure or malfunction in the landing gear system.
Incident Details
The aircraft touched down with its landing gear in a partially extended position. Prior to landing, tower personnel observed the gear configuration and attempted to warn the pilot using both radio communications and a light gun signal. Despite these attempts, the landing was completed with the gear only partially extended.
Post-Accident Examination
A detailed examination of the landing gear system was conducted after the occurrence. The inspection did not disclose any failure or malfunction within the system. During functional testing, it was discovered that when the landing gear handle was moved from the fully up position to the neutral position, the landing gear would lower to the trail position. This characteristic was noted during the investigation.
Summary
The investigation into the landing gear system found no mechanical faults. The pilot landed with the gear partially extended despite warnings from tower personnel. The specific behavior of the gear handle was documented.