What happened
On October 18, 2017, at approximately 13:30 local time, a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N1994T, was performing a local test flight at Dr. Joaquín Balaguer International Airport (MDJB) in the Dominican Republic. The flight was being conducted to verify the aircraft's performance following recent maintenance, which included the replacement of the engine, propeller, and propeller governor.
During the landing phase on runway 19, the left main landing gear collapsed upon contact with the runway surface. The impact caused the aircraft to veer uncontrolled toward the left side of the runway. The pilot and one passenger were able to evacuate the aircraft on their own. There were no injuries to the occupants.
The investigation
The CIAA investigation focused on the mechanical state of the landing gear and the pilot's actions during the approach. Investigators performed a visual inspection of the aircraft and a review of the landing gear system. Upon lifting the aircraft and activating the landing gear lever, investigators confirmed that the gear mechanism functioned correctly and could extend and lock securely.
The investigation also reviewed the maintenance history, noting the recent significant component changes. Additionally, the investigation examined the presence of a non-crew passenger on board during a maintenance test flight, which is regulated under Dominican Aeronautical Regulations (RAD) 91.407b.