On May 31, 1990, a Cessna 401 (registration N401FC) operated by Plymouth Air Sales was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, MA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION BY MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL OF THE LEFT GEAR TORQUE LINK ATTACHMENT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing rollout, the pilot felt a vibration and left pull, then heard a snapping sound as the left landing gear failed, causing the airplane to depart the runway and stop in grass.
Sequence of Events
The airplane landed normally. During the rollout, the pilot experienced a vibration and a pull to the left. Subsequently, a loud snapping sound was heard, and the left side of the airplane dropped to the runway. The airplane then pulled severely left, departed the runway, and came to a stop in the grass approximately 30 feet from the runway edge.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the landing gear revealed that a nut, washer, and cotter pin were missing from the left gear torque-link attachment. This discovery was made two hours Hobbs time after the accident occurred. The investigation noted that work had been performed on the left gear torque-link attachment during the last inspection.
What happened in the 31 May 1990 Cessna 401 accident near Plymouth, MA?
During landing rollout, the pilot felt a vibration and left pull, then heard a snapping sound as the left landing gear failed, causing the airplane to depart the runway and stop in grass.
Were there any fatalities in the 31 May 1990 Cessna 401 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 1990 involved a Cessna 401, registration N401FC, operated by Plymouth Air Sales, at Plymouth, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
IMPROPER MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION BY MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL OF THE LEFT GEAR TORQUE LINK ATTACHMENT.
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