What happened
On 5 March 2005, a Medway Eclipser 912 Microlight, registration EI-CTC, was undergoing maintenance at a private airfield near Stradbally, Co. Laois. Following an oil cooler replacement and subsequent engine run-up on the hangar apron, the pilot attempted to taxi the aircraft away from the hangar to prevent propeller wash from disturbing the hangar doors. As the brakes were released to initiate movement, the starboard undercarriage suddenly failed. This collapse caused the aircraft to roll onto its side, resulting in the propeller striking the ground. The pilot was uninjured during the event.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's undercarriage and identified that the draglink had pulled out of its anchoring bolt on the base tube. This failure caused the main gear and suspension to bend backward. A metallurgical analysis of the failed starboard draglink revealed evidence of rubbing and scoring at both ends of the strut, along with internal surface wear. While the fracture itself was an overload failure, the presence of oxidation and bruising suggested that the damage had progressed over time, likely initiated by a specific high-stress event. The port draglink was inspected and found to be in good condition with no fatigue cracks. Although the manufacturer suggested the failure might have been caused by a previous heavy landing, no such event was recorded in the aircraft's logbook.
Findings
- The starboard undercarriage collapsed during taxiing.
- The primary cause was the detachment of the draglink from the starboard wheel due to an overload failure.
- The failure caused the starboard gear to rotate rearward, leading to the propeller striking the ground.
- Evidence suggests the failure was a progressive process initiated by a prior overloading event.
Safety action
Following the investigation, a recommendation was made for the manufacturer to issue a Service Bulletin for periodic inspections of the draglink securing holes. In response, the manufacturer issued a Service Letter advising operators to perform more vigilant inspections of the component in accordance with the existing Aircraft Manual.