What happened
On July 5, 2010, at approximately 21:00 UTC, a Neiva EMB-810D, registration PT-RUZ, was operating a non-scheduled cargo flight transporting bank mail from Barra do Garças to Rondonópolis, Brazil. The flight proceeded normally, and the aircraft landed safely at Rondonópolis Airport (SWRD).
After landing, the crew taxied the aircraft toward the parking apron. While performing a sharp right-hand turn to position the aircraft near its exit, the pilot applied maximum rudder and right brake input. During this maneuver, the aircraft transitioned onto a section of the apron characterized by holes and undulations. At approximately 120 degrees into the turn, the nose landing gear unexpectedly retracted.
The retraction caused the tips of both propeller blades to strike the pavement, creating grooves in the ground. The impact of the nose gear hitting the surface also caused deformation to the landing gear bay doors. The two crew members on board were uninjured, and the aircraft sustained light damage.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by SERIPA VI focused on the mechanical failure of the nose gear locking mechanism. Investigators examined the component responsible for locking the drag braces (part number 95829-000) and found that it had fractured.
Technical analysis performed by the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology (DCTA) determined that the fracture was caused by an overload mechanism, where the stress applied to the part exceeded its material strength. No evidence of corrosion or material fatigue was found. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's maintenance records, airworthiness certificates, and the crew's qualifications were all valid and up to date. Furthermore, the aircraft was within its proper weight and balance limits at the time of the incident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the fracture of the nose gear locking component due to excessive structural loading.
- The application of maximum control inputs (rudder and braking) during a tight maneuver contributed to the stress on the gear.
- The presence of holes and uneven terrain on the parking apron contributed to the mechanical shock that led to the failure.