Nose Landing Gear Collapse During Landing

Casualties unknown • Houston, TX, US

The nose landing gear of an aircraft collapsed upon contact with the runway during landing, despite visual and cockpit indications that the gear was properly extended.

What happened

During the landing phase of flight, the pilot extended the landing gear while on the downwind leg. The pilot reported observing the three green landing gear position lights illuminated in the cockpit. To further verify the configuration, the pilot used a mirror mounted on the left engine nacelle to visually confirm that the nose landing gear was in the extended position.

As the aircraft approached the runway, the main landing gear made contact with the surface. At this moment, the pilot began to release elevator back pressure. Immediately following the contact of the main gear, the nose landing gear collapsed as it struck the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-05-28 Cessna T303 accident near Houston, TX?

The nose landing gear of an aircraft collapsed upon contact with the runway during landing, despite visual and cockpit indications that the gear was properly extended.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-05-28 involved a Cessna T303, registration N400T, operated by George R. Eeds, at Houston, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse of the nose landing gear for an undetermined reason.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18788. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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