A PA-28R instructor and student reported the nose landing gear failed to extend. They declared an emergency and landed safely.
Synopsis
A PA-28R instructor and student reported the nose landing gear failed to extend. They declared an emergency and landed safely.
Narrative
During the approach to landing phase; the landing gear selector was placed in the 'Gear Down' position. The 'Gear in Transit' light illuminated and then the 'Gear Down and Locked' position lights illuminated for the main landing gear; but not the nose gear. I elected to go around; recycle and troubleshoot the landing gear. The first action was to confirm that the light bulb had not burned out. This was confirmed by rotating the indicator lights. At this time; following the AFM (Aircraft Flight Manual) for the aircraft; several attempts were made to extend the landing gear; including the emergency extension system. The main landing gear indicators remained illuminated; and the nose landing gear annunciator light remained extinguished. An observer (a certificated pilot; flight instructor and mechanic) on the ground confirmed that the nose wheel was 'canted in the wheel well'. Through radio communication with that observer; emergency services were contacted. While waiting for emergency services to arrive; we continued to hold in the vicinity of the airport. Once emergency services had arrived and prepared for our landing; the student and I briefed the approach and landing sequence and prepared for the partial gear extension landing. A normal nose high approach and touchdown was made. An attempt to stop the engine during the landing was made. The throttle; mixture; magnetos and fuel selector valve were secured in the off positions. Once the aircraft come to a stop; the student and I evacuated the aircraft. There were no fires; injuries or fluid spills of any kind.
Second reporter narrative
After exhausting all of our resources; our only option was to land with the front landing gear stuck in a partially ended configuration. My Instructor and I reviewed the emergency landing procedures. We decided that my Instructor was going to perform the landing and operate the mixture; throttle and electronics. My tasks were to manage the main fuel valve and turn the ignition switch to off when appropriate. While holding nearby; we secured the cabin area; including our flight bags and other items in the cabin. My Instructor prepared the cabin door for an emergency evacuation. After the aircraft came to a stop; my Instructor exited the aircraft first while I handed all of the flight bags and aircraft paperwork to him and was right behind him. Neither of us sustained any injuries as a result during the landing.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.