What happened
On 6 September 2016, a Pioneer 300, registration G-CEIX, was conducting a private flight when the pilot experienced a sudden jolt during the takeoff roll from a farm strip. During the subsequent approach to Bidford Airfield, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear, but the right main gear failed to indicate a down and locked position. Attempts to recycle the system caused the circuit breaker to trip.
Following the failure, the pilot diverted to Wellesbourne Mountford Airfield to utilize a grass runway and ensure emergency services were available. During the diversion, manual attempts to operate the gear resulted in the right main wheel remaining partially extended and offset by roughly 45 degrees. The pilot declared an emergency and prepared for a potential gear collapse by using flaps to lower the approach speed and cutting the fuel and magnetos during the flare. Upon touchdown, the landing gear collapsed before the aircraft stopped. There were no injuries to the two crew members on board.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the aircraft's right main landing gear following the accident. The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the gear and the sequence of events starting from the initial takeoff roll. Investigators analyzed the fracture surfaces of the failed component to determine the nature of the structural failure.