On July 2, 2003, a Cessna T210M (registration N761XE) was involved in an aviation accident near Aspen, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loose wire in the landing gear handle sent a false indication to the right main gear actuator switch, causing the system to unlock the gear but not initiate landing gear retraction. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot aborted a flight due to landing gear retraction failure and returned for landing, during which the right main landing gear collapsed, causing substantial damage. Investigation revealed a loose wire in the gear handle.
Incident Summary
A pilot experienced difficulty retracting the landing gear after departure. Unable to resolve the issue, the pilot decided to terminate the flight and return to the airport for landing. During the landing attempt, the pilot aimed to touch down softly. Upon touchdown, the right main landing gear collapsed, resulting in substantial damage to the right horizontal stabilizer and elevator. The airplane then spun 180 degrees before coming to a stop on the runway.
Examination Findings
An examination of the landing gear system identified a loose wire in the landing gear handle. This loose wire sent a false indication to the right main gear actuator switch, causing the system to unlock the gear but not initiate retraction. No other anomalies were found.
Pilot Actions
Prior to the accident flight, the pilot had maintenance performed on the landing gear indicator light.
Probable cause
A loose wire in the landing gear handle sent a false indication to the right main gear actuator switch, causing the system to unlock the gear but not initiate landing gear retraction.