On April 22, 1993, a Piper PA-31-310 (registration N654N) was involved in an aviation accident near Port Huron, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the landing gear actuator cable, which prevented the gear from extending. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot spent ninety minutes troubleshooting a stuck landing gear system before executing an intentional gear-up landing at the destination airport.
What happened
The pilot initiated the approach to his intended destination but encountered immediate difficulties with the aircraft's landing gear. Despite multiple attempts, the gear would not extend. The pilot remained in the traffic pattern for approximately ninety minutes, working through emergency procedures and troubleshooting steps to resolve the mechanical issue. After exhausting available options without success, the pilot made the decision to conduct an intentional gear-up landing.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft's landing gear mechanism. The inspection revealed that the landing gear actuator cable had failed. This failure left the gear position actuating valve stuck in the UP position, preventing the wheels from deploying regardless of pilot input.
Probable cause
The failure of the landing gear actuator cable, which prevented the gear from extending.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Apr 1993 Piper PA-31-310 accident near Port Huron, MI?
A pilot spent ninety minutes troubleshooting a stuck landing gear system before executing an intentional gear-up landing at the destination airport.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Apr 1993 involved a Piper PA-31-310, registration N654N, at Port Huron, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure of the landing gear actuator cable, which prevented the gear from extending.
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