What happened
On 30 July 2003, a Cessna 210B, registration ZS-CTA, departed from Pietermaritzburg Aerodrome (FAPM) for a recreational flight toward the Mooiriver area. The aircraft was carrying two occupants, including the pilot and the aircraft owner. The weather conditions at the time of the flight were favorable, characterized by clear skies and an easterly wind of approximately 8 to 10 knots.
During the return portion of the flight, the pilot executed a standard landing procedure on Runway 16. However, as the aircraft touched down, the nose landing gear failed and collapsed. While the occupants managed to exit the aircraft without zero fatalities or injuries, the aircraft suffered significant damage to the propeller and the nose wheel well area.
The investigation
Investigators examined the mechanical state of the aircraft and the maintenance history leading up to the event. The pilot held a valid private license and was properly rated for the aircraft type. Records indicated that the most recent Maintenance Program Inspection (MPI) had been completed on 14 July 2003, shortly before the accident.
During the technical examination, investigators discovered irregularities regarding previous maintenance work. It was revealed that during a prior overhaul of the nose gear ram cylinder following a previous accident, incorrect spare parts—specifically regarding part numbers—had been utilized. Additionally, while a functional check of the landing gear system was performed, the investigation noted concerns regarding the operation and rigging of the sequence valve.
Findings
- The primary cause of the gear collapse was the improper rigging or operation of the sequence valve.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and the nose wheel well area due to the impact.
- Incorrect part numbers had been used during a previous overhaul of the nose gear ram cylinder.
- Although not a direct cause of this specific accident, abnormalities in the landing gear system's sequence valve operation were identified.