Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 140 near Edinburg, TX — 2020-10-30

Final reportCEN21LA233
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Date
2020-10-30
Location
Edinburg, TX, USA
Airport
EBG
Aircraft
CESSNA 140
Registration
N76933
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The collapse of the airplane’s left main landing gear for a reason that could not be determined based upon the available evidence.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he had performed three uneventful takeoffs and landings in the tailwheel airplane. During the fourth landing he used a wheel landing technique, and touched down about 45-50 mph. He stated that the touchdown was normal, but the airplane suddenly veered right and did not respond to corrective rudder or brake inputs. The airplane exited the runway and the left main landing gear detached; the left wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage. After the accident, a mechanic examined the airplane and found no preimpact mechanical deficiencies that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot reported that the landing gear was not fractured and that the retaining bolt was not found. Attempts to contact the mechanic to discuss whether the bolt was available for examination were unsuccessful and, therefore, the bolt could not be evaluated.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen a different landing technique to maintain control.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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