Introduction
On November 7, 2014, at 1730 mountain standard time, a Cessna 210B (registration N9578X) experienced a landing gear malfunction shortly after departing from Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport in Bullhead City, Arizona. The flight, operated by Tristate Careflight LLC under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91, was conducted in visual meteorological conditions without a filed flight plan.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that after takeoff, while moving the landing gear handle to the UP position, a loud bang was heard. The landing gear indication lights did not illuminate. The pilot cycled the landing gear handle, but no effect was observed. Additionally, the flaps became inoperative. During a low pass over the airport, the tower informed the pilot that the landing gear were in a transit position—neither fully retracted nor locked down. The pilot attempted the emergency gear extension procedure, but it was unsuccessful.
Upon landing, the gear completely collapsed. The airplane slid to a stop on its belly and tipped to the left, resulting in damage to the left horizontal stabilizer.
Damage and Examination
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer during the landing. The pilot stated that an airframe and power plant mechanic visually examined the landing gear actuator and noted that the actuator housing had split, which allowed the loss of hydraulic system pressure. No further examination was conducted, and the reason for the housing failure was not determined.