Pilot Debrief

CESSNA P210N near Auburn, WA — 2024-04-11

Final reportWPR24LA126
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Date
2024-04-11
Location
Auburn, WA, USA
Airport
S50
Aircraft
CESSNA P210N
Registration
N806RC
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

An overstress fracture of the left main landing gear actuator, which resulted in the failure of the left main landing gear to fully extend and lock into place.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported the purpose of the flight was to practice maneuvers and perform system checks on the airplane. The pilot extended the landing gear during the flight, and although the gear appeared to be extended the down-and-locked light did not illuminate. The pilot made multiple attempts to lower the gear, including performing the manual extension procedures. The pilot performed a low pass over the airport and was informed by his mechanic that the gear appeared to be extended. During the subsequent landing, the right main landing gear collapsed, resulting in substantial damage to the right horizontal stabilizer and elevator. Postaccident examination revealed that the left main landing actuator barrel had a longitudinal fracture. Metallurgical examination of the fracture surfaces revealed signatures of overstress. The overstress fracture of the actuator resulted in the failure of the landing gear to fully extend. A functional test and examination of the hydraulic power pack revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the landing after gear failure indications.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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