What happened
On June 24, 2013, a Cessna 210N, registration PR-BAP, was performing a ferry flight from Colíder to Estância Recanto (SWEN) in Mato Grosso, Brazil. The aircraft, operated by Piquiatuba Táxi-Aéreo, was carrying a pilot and one passenger.
According to the flight history, all phases of the flight prior to landing proceeded normally. However, during the landing roll at the SWEN aerodrome, the left main landing gear unexpectedly retracted. This mechanical failure caused the aircraft to veer off the left side of the runway. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, though the pilot and passenger remained unharmed.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators conducted a thorough examination of the aircraft's landing gear assembly at the operator's facilities. The main landing gear assembly was disassembled and inspected, with no discrepancies or damages found that could have caused the retraction.
Further technical analysis was performed on the landing gear struts at a specialized testing facility, where magnetic particle and liquid penetrant inspections confirmed the components were in perfect condition. Additionally, the hydraulic power pack was tested and found to be operating within the manufacturer's specified pressure parameters. Meteorological reports indicated calm wind conditions at the time of the occurrence.
Findings
- The investigation found no evidence of mechanical or material failure within the landing gear system or the hydraulic power pack.
- The pilot held valid medical and technical certifications and was qualified for the flight.
- The aircraft was airworthy, with all maintenance records up to date, and was within weight and balance limits.
- Due to the lack of mechanical evidence, the investigation concluded that the left main landing gear retraction was not caused by component failure, leaving the exact cause of the retraction undetermined, though operational factors such as an unstable approach, misaligned landing, or improper brake application were considered plausible hypotheses.