Nose gear collapse during landing

Casualties unknown • Jackson, WY, US

A pilot experienced a nose gear collapse after a hard landing following an aircraft bounce on final approach.

What happened

Upon completing a cross-country flight, the pilot prepared the aircraft for landing. The landing gear was extended, and a three-green indication was confirmed. During the final approach, the pilot noted that the aircraft was slightly high; in response, power was reduced and full flaps were deployed.

A 10-knot crosswind necessitated a right crab to maintain alignment with the runway. After crossing the threshold, the pilot reduced all engine power, and the main landing gear made contact with the runway surface. This contact caused the aircraft to bounce and become airborne again. The pilot leveled the aircraft and attempted to "milk" it back to the runway for a subsequent touchdown.

The second impact was a hard landing on all three landing gear components. Consequently, the nose gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to skid to a stop.

The investigation

A post-crash inspection of the landing gear was conducted. The examination did not reveal any mechanical failures or malfunctions within the landing gear system.

Probable cause

The nose gear collapsed following a hard landing after the aircraft bounced during the initial touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1990-09-13 Piper PA34-200T accident near Jackson, WY?

A pilot experienced a nose gear collapse after a hard landing following an aircraft bounce on final approach.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1990-09-13 involved a Piper PA34-200T, registration N3981F, at Jackson, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The nose gear collapsed following a hard landing after the aircraft bounced during the initial touchdown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24381. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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