On July 17, 2008, a Beech 65-A80 operated by Western Air Express Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Midland, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Soundproofing material being caught in the landing gear retraction/extension mechanism. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot returned to the airport after an unsafe landing gear light. During touchdown, the main gear collapsed, causing structural damage. Investigation found soundproofing material jammed in the mechanism.
Incident Overview
A pilot elected to return to the airport after the cockpit display indicated an unsafe landing gear condition. The airport's control tower performed a visual inspection of the aircraft during a flyby. Following the inspection, the pilot proceeded with the landing.
Landing and Damage
During touchdown, the main landing gear collapsed. The aircraft's belly sustained structural damage as a result of the gear failure.
Examination Findings
An examination of the landing gear assembly revealed that the failure was caused by soundproofing material becoming lodged in the gear's retraction and extension mechanism. The material interfered with the normal operation of the system.
Probable cause
Soundproofing material being caught in the landing gear retraction/extension mechanism.
What happened in the 17 Jul 2008 Beech 65-A80 accident near Midland, TX?
A pilot returned to the airport after an unsafe landing gear light. During touchdown, the main gear collapsed, causing structural damage. Investigation found soundproofing material jammed in the mechanism.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Jul 2008 Beech 65-A80 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jul 2008 involved a Beech 65-A80, operated by Western Air Express Inc, at Midland, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Soundproofing material being caught in the landing gear retraction/extension mechanism.
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