On December 25, 2006, a Cessna T210M (registration N6051N) was involved in an aviation accident near Broomfield, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the failure of the mechanic to comply with the required replacement schedule resulting in the failure of the hydraulic line and the resulting gear up landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot diverted to an alternate airport after the landing gear would not extend. The main landing gear remained retracted during landing, resulting in substantial damage. Investigation revealed a failed hydraulic hose that had not been replaced per manufacturer recommendations.
Incident Summary
A pilot experienced a landing gear malfunction while attempting to land. Unable to extend the main landing gear, the pilot diverted to another airport to troubleshoot the issue. The nose landing gear was successfully extended, but the main landing gear remained retracted. The pilot performed a normal landing with the main gear up, resulting in the aircraft coming to rest canted to the left with the left wing resting in snow. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident examination of the aircraft revealed that a hydraulic hose in the landing gear system had failed, leading to a loss of hydraulic fluid. A review of the maintenance records showed no evidence that the hydraulic hose had ever been replaced. Cessna Aircraft Company had issued Service Bulletin SEB92-8 addressing the replacement of hydraulic landing gear hoses. Additionally, the service manual for the Cessna Model 210 and T210 specifies that hydraulic hoses should be replaced every five years. Examination of other systems found no anomalies.
Maintenance History
Maintenance records indicated that the hydraulic hose had not been replaced since the aircraft's manufacture, contrary to the manufacturer's service bulletin and manual recommendations. The failed hose was the only identified anomaly in the landing gear system.