Accident Details
On February 23, 2025, about 1420 Pacific standard time, a Cessna 172S (registration N137RJ) was substantially damaged in an accident near La Verne, California. The flight instructor and student pilot were not injured. The aircraft was operating under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as an instructional flight.
Sequence of Events
According to the flight instructor, the airplane was conducting a simulated short field takeoff. The aircraft was taxied into position on the runway and stopped. The brakes were held while engine power was increased using the throttle. When the brakes were released to initiate the takeoff roll, the left main landing gear wheel began to rotate as expected, but there was a slight delay in the movement of the right main landing gear wheel. Shortly after, the right main landing gear leg collapsed.
Damage Assessment
Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the right wing, horizontal stabilizer, and elevator. Additionally, the right main landing gear tubular spring was partially separated from the airframe.
Further Examination
The airplane was retained for further examination.