Incident Summary
While climbing out on an IFR flight plan, a pilot encountered a landing gear problem. The pilot diverted to a nearby airport and performed a fly-by past the tower. Tower personnel observed that the nose gear was only partially extended. On final approach, the pilot shut off the engine to execute a dead stick landing, aiming to avoid further damage to the aircraft. The airplane touched down on terrain approximately 200 yards short of the runway threshold.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the airplane following the incident revealed a fractured nose wheel shimmy damper attaching collar. No other components were noted as contributing factors. The investigation did not specify any additional causal elements.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The aircraft was operating under an IFR flight plan at the time of the incident. Specific details regarding aircraft type, registration, operator, date, and location were not provided in the source. No information is available on occupants, injuries, or damage extent beyond the noted landing gear issue.