Occurrence Summary
On December 4, 2022, at approximately 10:30 am EST (1530 UTC), a Piper PA-46-310P aircraft with United States registration N4372L was involved in an accident while landing at Staniel Cay Airport (MYES), Exuma, Bahamas. The aircraft was manufactured in 1984 (serial number 8408087) and powered by a single Pratt & Whitney PT6A-21 jet propulsion engine. The flight was a private operation with two persons on board—one crew member and one passenger. The commander held an Airline Transport Pilot license.
According to the pilot in command, the flight departed from Stella Maris Airport (MYLS), Long Island, Bahamas, and was uneventful until the landing. During the approach into MYES, the pilot selected the landing gear handle to the down position and observed a gear safe indication. The aircraft landed and rolled approximately 200 feet before the nose gear partially collapsed. The aircraft sustained significant damage to the propeller.
Post-Accident Findings
A preliminary assessment conducted after the accident revealed that the nose gear actuator rod and rod end were both bent. Further analysis identified that this failure contributed to the prevention of the nose gear from staying fully extended. The weather at the time of the occurrence was Visual Meteorological Conditions, which was not considered a factor in the accident.
Investigation Status
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) conducted a limited scope investigation into this occurrence. The investigation was completed, and no safety recommendations were issued. No injuries were reported among the occupants.