Casualties unknown

1998-05-25: Cessna 310L (N333WD) — Wheeling, IL

Wheeling, IL, US

On May 25, 1998, a Cessna 310L (registration N333WD) was involved in an aviation accident near Wheeling, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the collapse of the left main landing gear for undetermined reasons. 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

During landing on runway 30R, the left main landing gear collapsed after a normal touchdown, causing the aircraft to slide left. Investigation revealed a sheared bellcrank assembly with no prior damage.

Incident Details

An instructor and dual student were conducting an instrument approach. After the approach, the student relinquished control to the instructor for the landing on runway 30R. The instructor reported a normal landing, and the aircraft rolled approximately 1,500 to 2,000 feet when the left landing gear collapsed. The pilot stated that the aircraft slid to the left, came to rest, and all occupants evacuated without further incident.

Investigation Findings

Post-crash examination of the left main landing gear revealed that the bellcrank assembly was sheared at both connection points of the strut assembly. Investigators found no evidence of stress, corrosion, or pre-existing damage on the fractured components.

Operational Context

The flight was conducted under instructional conditions, with the instructor managing the landing phase. The accident occurred during the landing roll on a dry runway, though specific weather conditions were not reported.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10026. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.