What happened
On 9 November 2014, a Beech 76 Duchess, registration G-GCCL, was conducting a training flight when the crew encountered a malfunction with the landing gear. Upon selecting the gear lever to the down position, the main landing gear deployed correctly, but the nose landing gear failed to extend. The crew observed that the nose gear transit light remained illuminated and the green down-and-locked indicator did not activate. A visual inspection confirmed the gear remained retracted.
In an attempt to rectify the issue, the crew cycled the landing gear lever and activated the emergency deployment system, but neither action successfully extended the gear. The crew also attempted to use increased normal acceleration through maneuvering to encourage deployment, which proved unsuccessful. The crew decided to divert to Cambridge Airport, choosing the location based on runway length, wind conditions, and available fire services.
During the approach to Runway 23, the crew performed a visual check of the main gear via the control tower. To prepare for the landing, the engines were shut down and the propellers were feathered. The aircraft touched down on its main wheels; while the crew managed to keep the nose elevated for a period, the nose eventually descended and struck the runway surface. There were no injuries to the two crew members on board.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the aircraft following the incident. During post-accident inspections, the aircraft was jacked, and it was observed that the nose landing gear appeared to be resting against the closed doors. With manual assistance, the doors were opened, allowing the gear to extend. Because the aircraft was moved to a hangar without further detailed examination, the specific mechanical reason for the initial failure to extend could not be determined.
Findings
- The nose landing gear failed to extend despite the use of the landing gear lever, the emergency deployment system, and maneuvering to increase acceleration.
- The nose gear was found to be resting on the closed doors during the post-accident inspection.
- The specific cause of the nose gear failure to extend could not be established.
- The aircraft operator had been following maintenance protocols, including recent lubrication and rigging checks, and had implemented previous manufacturer service bulletins regarding the nose gear mechanism.