What happened
On June 18, 2019, a Neiva EMB-711 ST, registration PT-NXT, was performing a private flight from São José (SSKT) to Lages (SBLJ), Santa Catarina. The aircraft was carrying two crew members and one passenger.
During the approach to runway 17 at Lages, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear using the normal system, but the green down-lock lights failed to illuminate, and the red warning light remained active. After performing a go-around, the pilot attempted to deploy the gear using the emergency system. Although the pilot visually confirmed the gear was down via mirrors, the cockpit indicators still showed an unsafe condition.
Upon touchdown, the right landing gear retracted, causing the aircraft to veer to the right and exit the runway onto the grass. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but all three occupants were uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records and the pilot's emergency response. While the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid and the aircraft was within weight and balance limits, investigators noted that the logbooks for the airframe, engine, and propeller were not up to date with monthly hour entries.
Technical testing of the microswitch system and landing gear indicator bulbs showed they were operational. However, a full functional test of the gear retraction/extension cycle could not be performed at the site due to the damage sustained by the landing gear struts. The investigation focused on the discrepancy between the pilot's emergency actions and the requirements outlined in the aircraft's Flight Manual.
Findings
- The pilot failed to follow the complete emergency landing gear deployment procedure; specifically, the landing gear selector was not moved to the "DOWN" position as required by the manual.
- The failure to follow the full checklist meant that the necessary manual steps to ensure locking, such as alternating rudder pedal inputs, were not performed.
- Incomplete execution of emergency procedures likely prevented the gear from properly locking, leading to the retraction of the right gear during the landing roll.
- The pilot's judgment during the emergency management contributed to the outcome.