Incident Overview
A pilot completed a preflight inspection inside a hangar. A maintenance technician then pulled the airplane out of the hangar and connected an auxiliary power cart. The pilot boarded the airplane and performed the normal checklist. The pilot signaled the technician to disconnect the power cart, and the technician signaled that the pilot was clear to start the engines.
In-Flight Discovery
After departure, the pilot noted a problem with the landing gear. The pilot established that the tow bar was, most likely, still attached to the nosewheel. Consequently, the pilot diverted to a nearby airport for a precautionary landing.
Landing and Damage
During the landing, the nose landing gear collapsed. The primary structure in the nose of the airplane was substantially damaged.
Probable Cause
The official finding states that the maintenance technician did not remove the tow bar prior to the flight.