What happened
On September 21, 2018, a Beechcraft 58, registration PT-LRP, departed from Xavantina Airport (SWXV) in Mato Grosso, Brazil, bound for Água Boa (SWHP). The flight was operating as a private passenger transport with one pilot and five passengers on board.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot reported hearing an unusual noise. While the pilot initially suspected gravel from the runway, an external observer noted that a component of the nose landing gear appeared loose and partially retracted. Following the takeoff, the pilot observed that the aircraft's cruise speed was limited to 165 knots, lower than the expected 180 knots, likely due to increased aerodynamic drag from the damaged gear.
Upon approaching the destination, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear using the standard system, but the landing gear circuit breaker repeatedly tripped. After consulting with a ground mechanic, the pilot attempted to deploy the gear using the emergency manual hand pump. Despite four attempts, the gear failed to extend. Consequently, the pilot executed an emergency landing with the gear retracted, resulting in the aircraft fuselage making contact with the runway.
The investigation
The CENIPA investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the landing gear and the circumstances surrounding the takeoff. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, which were found to be up to date, and verified that the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid. The pilot was also found to be properly licensed and qualified for the operation.
Investigators analyzed the sequence of events from the moment the abnormal noise was heard during takeoff. The investigation noted that the aircraft's performance was degraded during flight, which was consistent with the drag caused by the malfunctioning nose gear. Due to the damage sustained during the belly landing, the specific point of impact on the nose gear and the exact nature of the damaged components could not be definitively identified.