On September 24, 2003, a Cessna R182 (registration N6078C) was involved in an aviation accident near Cedar City, UT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the nose wheel separating from the airplane during the precautionary landing. Factors contributing to the accident were the missing nose gear axle through-bolt and the missing cotter pin. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing, the nose wheel separated and the nose gear strut collapsed after the pilot experienced gear retraction problems and received visual confirmation that all gear were down.
Event Description
The pilot took off and attempted to raise the landing gear. He did not hear the gear motor operate and observed that the main landing gear remained extended while the nose gear was only partially retracted. The pilot cycled the gear several times and eventually left it in the down position. Despite cockpit indications that the gear was safe, the pilot requested that crash crew personnel at the airport inspect the gear as he flew over. The crash crew reported that all three landing gear appeared to be down.
The pilot proceeded to land. Upon touchdown, the nose wheel contacted the runway and separated from the aircraft. The nose gear strut then dug into the asphalt and collapsed.
Examination Findings
An examination of the nose gear revealed that the axle through bolt had a vacant pinhole intended for a cotter key at the end of the bolt threads. The end nut for the bolt was missing and was not recovered at the accident site. Examination of the engine, engine controls, and other airplane systems found no anomalies.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Sept 2003 Cessna R182 accident near Cedar City, UT?
During landing, the nose wheel separated and the nose gear strut collapsed after the pilot experienced gear retraction problems and received visual confirmation that all gear were down.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Sept 2003 Cessna R182 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Sept 2003 involved a Cessna R182, registration N6078C, at Cedar City, UT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the nose wheel separating from the airplane during the precautionary landing. Factors contributing to the accident were the missing nose gear axle through-bolt and the missing cotter pin.
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