History of Flight
On 25 August 2014, a Cessna C414A registered ZS-FPU was flown from East London Aerodrome (FAEL) for a maintenance test flight. The aircraft had been repaired earlier for a hydraulic leak in the left main wheel well. During final approach to Runway 06, the pilot selected the undercarriage down, but the left main gear did not extend. The pilot deployed the emergency blow-down system, which extended only the nose and right main gear. After a fly-past to confirm the left gear was still retracted, the pilot landed with the two extended wheels. Once slowed, the left wing contacted the runway, and the aircraft veered left, stopping on the grass near the intersection of Runways 06/24 and 11/29.
Injuries to Persons
The pilot was the sole occupant; no passengers were carried. No injuries were reported.
Damage to Aircraft
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the left wing, left propeller, and underbelly.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, a Cessna C414A (serial 414-A0505, built 1980), had 4,218.4 total airframe hours. The pilot held a Commercial Pilot Licence with type endorsement and had 542.8 total flying hours, including 248.1 hours on type. The flight was conducted under Part 43 (maintenance test flight) and was the pilot's second flight that day.
Meteorological Conditions
Wind was from 300° at 8 knots, visibility greater than 10 km, temperature 18°C. No significant cloud cover. The accident occurred during daylight at 0735Z.
Investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that a rigid hydraulic pipe in the left main wheel well had separated from the main landing gear up-lock cylinder, allowing hydraulic fluid to leak. This prevented the left main gear from extending. The supporting sleeve at the attachment to the up-lock cylinder was cracked. All other components were found properly installed. No evidence of preexisting faults or pilot incapacitation was found.