Wheels up landing involving a Cessna 402B, VH-FCL, Darwin Aerodrome, Northern Territory, on 28 October 1996

199603506

Summary

On arrival at Crocker Island, during the prelanding checks, the left main landing gear would not lock down. The pilot diverted to Darwin where emergency services were available. He performed the emergency landing gear extension drill, but the left main landing gear was still not indicating down and locked. The pilot flew past the tower for a visual inspection of the landing gear by the tower controller who advised that the landing gear "appeared normal". When emergency services were in place, the pilot landed. As the aircraft slowed on the landing roll, the left main gear collapsed.

Subsequently engineers discovered that the left side brace centre bushing had seized on its bolt thereby preventing the left main landing gear leg from locking down. The operator's chief engineer has formally advised the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of the mechanical fault.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199603506
Occurrence date 28/10/1996
Location Darwin Aerodrome
State Northern Territory
Report release date 19/11/1996
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Wheels up landing
Occurrence class Incident

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Cessna Aircraft Company
Model 402B
Registration VH-FCL
Sector Piston
Operation type Air Transport Low Capacity
Departure point South Goulbourne Is NT
Destination Crocker Is NT
Damage Minor