What happened
On 23 April 2011, a Piper PA-23-250 Aztec, registration N40267, was performing a non-revenue commercial air transport flight when it experienced a landing gear failure at Virgin Gorda Airport, British Virgin Islands. During the approach to Runway 03, the pilot confirmed the landing gear was down by observing three green position lights.
As the aircraft decelerated on the runway following a normal touchdown, the pilot heard the landing gear warning horn. The aircraft subsequently rolled to the left, leading to the collapse of the left main landing gear. The aircraft skidded for approximately 10 and a half meters before coming to rest on its left side. The impact caused damage to the propeller, the underside of the left wing, the flap, the landing gear doors, and the main gear and actuator. The pilot was able to shut down the engines and exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the mechanical state of the landing gear assembly and the aircraft's systems. The inquiry established that the left main landing gear actuator had failed due to overload. While the pilot had observed the green lights indicating the gear was down, the investigation concluded that the left main gear was not in a fully locked position. This-unlocked state subjected the actuator to excessive forces during the landing roll, leading to its failure. The specific reason why the gear failed to lock into position remained undetermined.