What happened
On December 20, 2024, at approximately 20:10 local time, a Cessna 210 Centurion, registration LV-OCP, was performing a visual flight rules (VFR) flight from San Fernando, Argentina (SADF) to Laguna del Sauce, Uruguay (SULS). The aircraft was carrying a pilot and two passengers.
As the aircraft approached runway 19 at SULS during twilight, the pilot deployed the landing gear, and the cockpit indicators confirmed the gear was down and locked. However, upon touchdown, the left main landing gear failed to support the aircraft's weight. The sudden loss of support caused the aircraft to destabilize and veer approximately 90 degrees to the left. The aircraft came to a stop at the edge of the runway strip, resting on its left wing.
Following the impact, the pilot shut down the engine and the master switch. A fuel leak was observed draining from the left wing drains, prompting airport firefighters to deploy containment measures. Due to the aircraft's final position, the pilot required assistance to evacuate the cabin because the door could not be opened.
The investigation
The CIAIA examined the hydraulic system, including the pump, pipes, hoses, and actuators, finding no external defects or evidence of hydraulic fluid leaks. The landing gear locks were inspected and found to be in the extended and locked position. Subsequent testing showed that the retractable gear functioned normally, with both extension and retraction cycles completing without incident.
Investigators also noted that while the micro-switches for the landing gear system were adjusted, there was no definitive evidence that they had been out of their required position prior to the event. The investigation also noted discrepancies in the aircraft's maintenance logs regarding total flight hours, though this was not identified as a contributing factor to the gear collapse.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure of the landing gear to remain extended and locked under the weight of the aircraft during touchdown.
- The aircraft sustained minor structural damage, including damage to the left horizontal stabilizer leading edge and impact damage to antennas and the tail cone.
- All three occupants evacuated the aircraft without injuries.
- Meteorological conditions were favorable, with a headwind of approximately 15 knots and good visibility.