Primary finding
Probable cause
the fractured nose gear retract arm which allowed the nose gear to collapse.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while on final approach to land, he noticed that the green indicator light for the landing gear was not illuminated. After recycling the gear, the light came on and he made a visual check to verify that the landing gear was extended. After landing, the airplane rolled approximately 300 to 400 feet down the runway when the nose gear, and subsequently the right main landing gear, collapsed. Postaccident examination revealed the nose wheel gear retract arm had fractured.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 16, 1993, about 1300 central daylight time, a Piper PA-30 airplane, N7636Y, sustained substantial damage while landing at Point Lookout Airport, Branson, Missouri. The private pilot and three passengers aboard were not injured. The personal flight originated at Millington, Tennessee. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the 14 CFR Part 91 flight. The pilot reported that while on final approach to land, he noticed that the green indicator light for the landing gear was out. After recycling the gear, the green light did come on. The pilot said he also made a visual check to verify that the landing gear was extended. After landing, the airplane rolled approximately 300 to 400 feet down the runway when the nose and right main landing gear collapsed. Postaccident inspection discovered a fractured nose gear retract arm. -