Casualties unknown

1994-05-06: Beech 23-C23 (N6660R) — Sheppard, Donald L — Knightdale, NC

Knightdale, NC, US

On May 6, 1994, a Beech 23-C23 (registration N6660R) operated by Sheppard, Donald L was involved in an aviation accident near Knightdale, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER LANDING FLARE THAT RESULTED IN THE COLLAPSE OF THE NOSE LANDING GEAR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that after three go-arounds due to nose gear shimmy, the nose dropped on the fourth landing. Post-flight inspection revealed the nose gear strut had broken off and was oriented toward the rear of the airplane.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during landing, the nose gear began to shimmy, prompting a go-around. This same shimmy occurred on three subsequent landing attempts, each resulting in a go-around. On the fourth and final landing, the nose dropped. After exiting the airplane, the pilot discovered that the nose gear strut had broken off and was positioned toward the rear of the airplane.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that there were no malfunctions of the airplane during the departure takeoff, no en route stops were made, and the airplane did not collide with any obstacles. He described the landing as normal for him, noting that during a normal landing he may have touched down on all three gears at once or on the back gear.

Findings

The nose gear strut was found broken off, with the detached portion oriented rearward. The pilot did not report any mechanical issues prior to the landing attempts. No other damage or anomalies were noted.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01210. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.