Primary finding
Probable cause
The collapse of the left main landing gear for an undetermined reason.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airplane entered the traffic pattern for a landing on runway 29, but the pilot was then asked by the tower controller to land on runway 16. The pilot stated that the 'approach and landing were normal' but 'the wind gusted and ballooned us a few feet.' after touching down on the runway again, the left main landing gear collapsed and the airplane veered off to the right side of the runway. A witness reported the landing gear was down prior to the bounce, but then observed the left gear 'in trail' after the bounce. The landing gear was functionally tested and no mechanical malfunctions were found.
Source record
Factual narrative
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