What happened
On 15 March 2003, a Rockwell Commander 680 FL, registration ZS-NVK, was conducting an aerial survey flight from Chibuto, Mozambique, toward Maputo. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft's left-hand main landing gear encountered a ditch obscured by approximately 10cm of uneven grass. Although the pilot successfully rotated and achieved flight, the structural integrity of the gear was compromised during the initial roll.
While climbing to an altitude of roughly 1,000 feet AGL, the pilot attempted to retract the undercarriage but discovered that the left-hand main gear was damaged and could neither extend nor lock into position. Seeking more reliable emergency and maintenance services, the pilot diverted the flight to Lanseria Aerodrome in South Africa. The flight concluded with a wheels-up landing, which caused additional damage to the left-hand main landing gear and the lower fuselage. All three occupants survived the incident without injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the takeoff conditions and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid commercial pilot license and a current medical certificate. Maintenance records indicated that the aircraft, which had a total of 4,517.90 airframe hours, had been properly maintained, with the most recent periodic inspection completed in August 2002. Meteorological conditions at the time of the incident at Lanseria were reported as clear with light winds.
Findings
- The primary cause of the mechanical failure was the left-hand main landing gear striking a ditch on the runway during the takeoff phase in Mozambique.
- The damage sustained during the takeoff roll prevented the undercarriage from functioning correctly, specifically preventing it from reaching the locked position.
- The decision to divert to Lanseria was made to ensure access to better maintenance and emergency support.