What happened
During the approach phase of flight, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear in preparation for landing. However, the left main landing gear failed to extend as required. In response to the malfunction, the pilot performed a go-around and executed all necessary emergency procedures. Despite these efforts, the left main landing gear could not be lowered. The flight was subsequently diverted to another airport, where the pilot completed the landing with the left main landing gear in the retracted position.
The aircraft sustained minor damage during the incident. There were 141 passengers and 9 crewmembers on board, all of whom were not injured.
The investigation
An examination of the left main landing gear revealed a broken landing gear door actuator fitting. Investigators noted that several service bulletins had previously been issued which outlined repetitive inspection procedures designed to prevent this specific type of failure. Records indicated that the operator had maintained compliance with all applicable service bulletins and airworthiness directives.