What happened
The aircraft was conducting a landing operation on runway 27 under prevailing south winds. During the approach phase, specifically while on short final, the pilot reported that the nose of the airplane dropped unexpectedly. In an attempt to arrest the descent and maintain control, the pilot applied corrective inputs; however, the right main landing gear impacted the runway surface and subsequently collapsed upon touchdown.
The investigation
Post-accident examination focused on the mechanical failure of the landing gear system and the aerodynamic conditions leading up to the impact. The collapse of the right main gear was the primary physical finding associated with the accident sequence.
Findings
Meteorological data collected approximately 25 minutes prior to the accident, from a station located 9 miles northeast of the site, indicated winds from 180 degrees at 12 knots. This information suggests that while wind conditions were present, the primary factor in the incident was the pilot's inability to maintain proper pitch attitude and airspeed during the critical final phase of flight.
Safety message
This incident highlights the importance of maintaining precise pitch control and airspeed management during the final approach and flare. Pilots must be vigilant for sudden changes in aircraft attitude and ensure sufficient energy is available to arrest descent rates effectively, particularly when encountering unexpected aerodynamic disturbances or handling characteristics near the ground.