Pilot Debrief

Piper PA-46-310P near Metropolis, IL — 2012-06-22

Final reportCEN12LA456
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Date
2012-06-22
Location
Metropolis, IL, USA
Airport
KM30
Aircraft
Piper PA-46-310P
Registration
N43840
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

Landing gear collapse for reasons that could not be determined because testing could not replicate the problem.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that he lowered the landing gear and observed three green annunciator lights. Shortly after touching down, the nose gear collapsed. The airplane began drifting to the left and the right main gear collapsed, followed by the collapse of the left main gear. Postaccident examination revealed the landing gear handle was in the UP position. The pilot said he may have hit the handle inadvertently when the nose gear collapsed and he was thrown forward. The hydraulic reservoir was full and there was no sign of leakage. The main gears extended when the emergency extension handle was pulled. Proper travel of the landing gear handle was noted at the selector valve.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have verified landing gear position before touchdown.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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