Wheels up landing involving a Piper PA-34-220T, VH-SKJ, Horn Island, Queensland, on 27 July 1994

199402001

Summary

The left main landing gear indicated unsafe after the pilot selected gear down. The gear was recycled, and the emergency extension procedure applied with the same result. During the subsequent landing, as the aircraft slowed, the left main gear collapsed.

Inspection revealed that the left main gear trunnion pivot pin had partially seized. This had prevented both the normal and emergency extension. Although the component had been lubricated as required by maintenance procedures, the lubricant had not penetrated the full length of the pin, leading to the partial seizure.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199402001
Occurrence date 27/07/1994
Location Horn Island
State Queensland
Report release date 07/03/1996
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Wheels up landing
Occurrence class Accident

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Piper Aircraft Corp
Model PA-34-220T
Registration VH-SKJ
Sector Piston
Operation type Air Transport Low Capacity
Departure point Kubin Island QLD
Destination Horn Island QLD
Damage Substantial