What happened
On 22 April 2005, a Rockwell Commander 112, registration ZS-JRY, was conducting a private flight originating from Progress Aerodrome (FAPZ). After approximately 90 minutes of flight time within the general flying area, the pilot returned to FAPZ for a landing. During the downwind leg of the approach, the pilot observed that the landing gear configuration was unsafe, noting that the nose gear indicator light failed to illuminate.
In an attempt to rectify the situation, the pilot performed the emergency gear extension procedure twice; however, the system failed to provide a down-and-locked indication for all three wheels. To verify the aircraft's configuration, the pilot requested a low-level fly-past at Progress Aerodrome, which confirmed that the nose gear remained retracted. Due to the need for specialized emergency services and equipment, the decision was made to divert to Port Elizabeth Aerodrome (FAPE). Upon arrival, the pilot prepared for a belly landing by retracting the gear, setting the flaps to the up position, and shutting down the engine just prior to touchdown on Runway 35. The aircraft stopped on the runway centerline with zero fatalities and zero injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the damage sustained during the impact, which included the nose gear doors, the lower engine cowling, the lower fuselage, and the propeller. Following the incident, an aircraft maintenance organization (AMO) recovered the aircraft and conducted testing while the airframe was on jacks. These tests, performed with the nose landing gear doors removed, showed that the landing gear and emergency extension systems functioned correctly. Records indicated that the last Mandatory Periodic Inspection (MPI) had been completed on 4 February 2005, with 68.5 flight hours accumulated since that inspection.
Findings
- The primary cause of the nose gear failure was likely due to the nose landing gear doors becoming stuck or sticky.
- A definitive reason for the door malfunction could not be determined because the doors and their attachments sustained significant damage during the landing.