Investigation Overview
The Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) investigated an accident involving Beechcraft King Air P2-JAU, operated by Tropicair Limited. The aircraft sustained damage during the occurrence. The investigation centered on a malfunction of the nose landing gear (NLG) actuator. A retraction test and initial inspection were carried out at the Tropicair hangar, followed by a detailed teardown and inspection at the AIC Engineering Workshop. Components were cleaned with solvent for further examination. The manufacturer also provided an inspection summary as part of the investigation.
Findings
The investigation determined that the NLG actuator was faulty. Maintenance records, including work orders and lubrication records, were reviewed. The teardown inspection revealed issues within the actuator that contributed to its failure. The analysis also examined the aircraft's mechanical landing gear system and alternate extension manual control procedures.
Safety Recommendation
The AIC issued Safety Recommendation AIC 24-R01/23-1005 to Tropicair Limited, advising preventive actions to address the actuator issue. The operator responded by issuing an engineering recordable memo and amending the approved maintenance programme to incorporate improved inspection and lubrication procedures.