Landing Gear Collapse Following Engine Power Loss in Del Norte

Casualties unknown • Del Norte, CO, US

An aircraft experienced an engine malfunction during descent, leading to an off-runway touchdown and subsequent landing gear collapse in Colorado.

What happened

During a descent into Del Norte, Colorado, the pilot reported that the engine began running roughly, resulting in an almost total loss of power. While the engine remained operational, the pilot was unable to restore full power to the aircraft.

As the pilot focused on managing the engine issues, the aircraft's attention was diverted from the landing profile. Consequently, the airplane touched down with the nose and right main landing gear on the runway, while the left main landing gear landed on the runway shoulder. In an attempt to maneuver the aircraft back onto the runway, the left main landing gear struck the edge of a taxiway, causing it to collapse.

The investigation

An examination of the engine following the accident revealed that the fuel injector nozzles were partially obstructed by a gummy residue.

Probable cause

The engine experienced a loss of power due to fuel injector nozzles being partially blocked by gummy residue, which diverted the pilot's attention and led to an improper touchdown and subsequent gear collapse.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-06-18 Piper PA-32-300T accident near Del Norte, CO?

An aircraft experienced an engine malfunction during descent, leading to an off-runway touchdown and subsequent landing gear collapse in Colorado.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-06-18 involved a Piper PA-32-300T, registration N8056Y, at Del Norte, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine experienced a loss of power due to fuel injector nozzles being partially blocked by gummy residue, which diverted the pilot's attention and led to an improper touchdown and subsequent gear collapse.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08127. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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