Right Main Landing Gear Collapse During Visual Approach

Casualties unknown • Nantucket, MA, US

A right main landing gear failure caused an aircraft to veer off the runway following a visual approach to Runway 06.

What happened

Operating under VFR conditions, the pilot completed a visual approach to Runway 06. During the landing sequence, the pilot reported that the aircraft ballooned prior to final touchdown and noted that the landing was somewhat bumpy, though not characterized as a hard landing.

Immediately following the final touchdown, the right main landing gear collapsed. This structural failure caused the aircraft to veer off the side of the runway.

The investigation

An examination of the landing gear identified a fracture located in the web area of the trunnion. Investigators noted that an existing Airworthiness Directive and a manufacturer service bulletin had previously mandated inspections of this specific web area for cracks to prevent main landing gear collapse and subsequent aircraft damage.

A detailed metallurgical examination was performed on the landing gear components. This analysis determined that the fractures were the result of overstress and confirmed that no pre-existing fractures were present in the component prior to the event.

Probable cause

The fracture in the trunnion web was caused by overstress during the landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-09-02 Piper PA-34-220T accident near Nantucket, MA?

A right main landing gear failure caused an aircraft to veer off the runway following a visual approach to Runway 06.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-09-02 involved a Piper PA-34-220T, registration N6915Z, at Nantucket, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The fracture in the trunnion web was caused by overstress during the landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19782. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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