Accident Overview
On January 11, 2008, at approximately 1815 Pacific standard time, a Piper PA-24-250, registration N7988P, sustained substantial damage following a landing gear collapse at Placerville Airport, Placerville, California. The aircraft was owned and operated by the pilot under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91, as a personal instrument flight rules cross-country flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight plan was filed. The flight originated from Tracy, California, at 1745, with Placerville as the intended destination.
Landing and Gear Collapse
The pilot reported that shortly after touchdown, the right main landing gear collapsed, causing the airplane to veer off the runway. After departing the paved surface, the left main and nose landing gear also collapsed.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed structural damage to the right wing. Inspection of the landing gear system showed that the left main landing gear actuator rod had separated, with the fracture consistent with overload. Continuity was established throughout the landing gear system. The landing gear was extended manually and locked in the down position. The landing gear warning light functioned normally when tested.