What happened
On February 21, 2002, a CESSNA C 421, registration ZS-VST, was conducting a private flight from Brakpan-Benoni (FABB) to Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB). During the approach and landing phase on Runway 29, the pilot confirmed that the landing gear was properly extended, noting three green lights indicating the gear was down and locked.
As the aircraft made contact with the runway on both main wheels and began its ground roll, a loud noise was heard, immediately followed by the failure of the right-hand main undercarriage. In response to the collapse, the pilot promptly feathered both propellers and shut down the engines. The loss of structural integrity caused the aircraft to veer toward the right, eventually exiting the runway.
During the excursion, the aircraft struck a runway light, which caused damage to the leading edge of the right-hand wing and the right-hand propeller blade. There were no injuries to the pilot, and no other occupants were on board.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the landing gear assembly. Investigators examined the wreckage to determine the state of the undercarriage components at the time of the incident. The inspection revealed that the drag link and the bell crank had been bent during the event.
Findings
- The right-hand main landing gear collapsed during the initial stages of the ground roll.
- The impact with runway lighting resulted in damage to the right-hand propeller and the wing's leading edge.
- The bent condition of the drag link and bell crank prevented investigators from determining if the undercarriage rigging had been correctly configured prior to the landing.