Landing gear collapse during touchdown

Casualties unknown • Redmond, OR, US

A landing gear failure resulted in substantial damage to an aircraft during its landing phase.

What happened

During the landing phase of flight, as the aircraft touched down on the runway, the landing gear collapsed. This event caused substantial damage to the airframe.

The pilot reported that the landing gear was extended after entering the downwind leg for the landing runway. According to the pilot, the "down and locked" indicator light illuminated, confirming that the gear was in the proper position. The pilot noted that the landing flare was performed normally; however, as the aircraft continued to settle onto the runway, it landed with the gear in the up position.

The investigation

A post-accident evaluation of the landing gear system was conducted. This examination included a gear swing test. The investigation revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have prevented the landing gear from fully extending to the down and locked position.

Probable cause

The investigation found no mechanical defects in the landing gear system that would have prevented extension, suggesting the gear was not properly extended despite the indicator light showing it as locked.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-08-01 Piper PA-24-260 accident near Redmond, OR?

A landing gear failure resulted in substantial damage to an aircraft during its landing phase.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-08-01 involved a Piper PA-24-260, registration N9394P, at Redmond, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The investigation found no mechanical defects in the landing gear system that would have prevented extension, suggesting the gear was not properly extended despite the indicator light showing it as locked.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040809X01169. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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