Accident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a pilot-rated student were conducting a flight departure. During the climb after takeoff, while the aircraft was traveling at an airspeed greater than 80 mph, the crew reported that the landing gear would not retract. The CFI attempted to diagnose the issue by checking the cockpit instruments and controls. After shifting attention outside, the instructor realized the aircraft was dangerously low. The airplane subsequently impacted the grassy area adjacent to the north side of the runway.
Impact and Damage
The collision caused the left main landing gear to separate from the airframe. The nose landing gear and the right main landing gear collapsed during the event. The aircraft came to rest in an upright position. A small postcrash fire ensued, damaging the rear portion of the engine.
Post-Accident Examination
Following recovery, investigators examined the airplane. The landing gear selector handle was found in the up position. The only tripped circuit breaker identified was for the landing light. Tests performed on the diaphragm of the landing gear auto extend system showed no evidence of failure or malfunction prior to the accident. When electrical power was applied and the landing gear selector was moved to the down position, the landing gear components began moving toward the extended position.
Aircraft Handbook Information
The airplane's Owner's Handbook describes a pressure sensing device within the landing gear system. This device prevents the gear from retracting at airspeeds below approximately 85 mph when operating at full power, even if the selector switch is in the up position. The handbook notes that the minimum speed for gear retraction increases with reduced power and/or higher altitude. Additionally, a manual override capability is provided via an emergency gear lever located between the front seats, to the left of the flap handle. Holding this lever in the raised position bypasses the system, allowing the gear position to be controlled by the selector switch regardless of airspeed or power settings.