What happened
On 21 January 2016, a Socata TB2 and registration G-SCIP was conducting a private flight from Elstree Aerodrome toward Welshpool. During the approach for runway 22, the pilot attempted to deploy the landing gear and flaps but observed that the nose gear indicator remained unlit, while the main gear lights were green. Although the electro-hydraulic pump was operational and the gear-in-transit light was active, the nose gear failed to extend fully. After being informed by air traffic control that the gear appeared only halfway down, the pilot decided to divert to Sleap Airfield to access better support and maintenance resources.
During the ten-minute transit to Sleap, the pilot attempted multiple gear re-selections and emergency extensions using various maneuvers. However, noticing the pump motor was straining, the pilot ceased these attempts to prevent overheating. Upon arrival at Sleap, the pilot prepared for an emergency landing on runway 23. As the aircraft crossed the threshold of the paved surface, the pilot shut down the engine to mitigate potential propeller damage. The aircraft touched down on its main wheels, but the nose gear subsequently collapsed. The aircraft slid approximately 100 metres on its nose before coming to a stop. There were no injuries to the pilot.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft by supporting the nose on a trestle. A technician from the maintenance company attempted to manually extend the gear but found it immobile. The leg could only be moved into the locked position after a union on the nose gear piston retract line was disconnected. Once the aircraft was placed on jacks in a hangar, the system was replenished and tested through several cycles, all of which functioned normally. No clear mechanical defects were identified during these tests.
Findings
- The nose landing gear failed to extend fully due to what appeared to be a hydraulic lock in the retraction jack.
- The maintenance company was unable to identify the specific cause of the hydraulic lock.
- The pilot's decision to shut down the engine prior to touchdown successfully prevented significant propeller damage.