Event Description
A flight intended to prepare the left-seat pilot for a type rating ended with the left main landing gear collapsing during a landing on runway 31. The left-seat pilot, who had just completed ground school, was landing for the first time. Also on board were another student in the jump seat and two more in the rear of the airplane.
Landing Sequence
The airplane touched down in a crab, bounced, then touched down again with a left drift. Immediately thereafter, the left main gear collapsed. Winds were from 010 degrees at 16 knots during the landing.
Discrepant Accounts
Students occupying the left seat and jump seat reported that the certified flight instructor (CFI) had called for a touch-and-go landing. The CFI stated that he did not make such a call.
Flap Position and Pilot Experience
After the accident, the flaps were found in the full-down position. The CFI had made only two landings in this airplane during the preceding four months.
Postaccident Testing Findings
During postaccident testing, the landing gear would not free-fall to a locked position until weight applied to the gear exceeded acceptance criteria. The lead seal on the down-and-locked indicator switch was missing. Adjustments to the switch were made in 1/16-inch increments, but results were inconclusive. Additionally, black material was found inside the locking collar; however, whether the amount of material would have affected the lock mechanism was also inconclusive.