Incident Overview
On December 18, 2014, at 1723 central standard time, a Cessna 310J airplane, N700MA, experienced a collapse of the left main landing gear after landing at San Antonio International Airport (KSAT), San Antonio, Texas. The aircraft was operated by a private individual under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 for a personal flight. It had departed from Castroville Municipal Airport (KCVB), Castroville, Texas, and was registered to Laguna Verde Leasing Inc., Wilmington, Delaware.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that after departure, the landing gear did not retract as usual. He began troubleshooting and actuated the gear down lever. The landing gear did not extend, and the green landing gear light in the cockpit did not illuminate. He recycled the gear, but it again failed to extend. The pilot continued to the destination airport and requested that an air traffic controller observe the gear position. The tower controller reported the landing gear appeared down and cleared the pilot to land. During the end of the landing roll, when the airplane was moving slowly, the left landing gear retracted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing spar.
Examination Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness inspector examined the airplane. The inspection found that the landing gear compartment was dirty and covered in oil and debris. However, the examination did not reveal the reason for the landing gear retraction. The airplane was not examined by a mechanic.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot and two passengers were not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage, specifically to the left wing spar.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was stated in the investigation source.