Incident Overview
As the flight approached its destination, the nose landing gear did not fully extend into the locked position. The crew observed the unsafe gear condition through an inspection window and promptly initiated emergency checklist procedures. They prepared the passenger cabin for an emergency landing and returned to the departure airport.
Emergency Landing and Evacuation
During the subsequent emergency landing, the nose gear collapsed upon touchdown, causing the aircraft to come to a stop on the runway resting on its nose. A partial evacuation of the cabin was conducted using the tailcone slide. After it was determined safe, the remaining passengers and crew exited through the forward cabin doors.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident inspection revealed that a flexible hydraulic hose, which had been temporarily installed to replace a leaking rigid line, was not properly secured. This hose came into contact with the nose wheel downlock mechanism and interfered with its ability to lock over center, thereby preventing the nose gear from extending fully.