Aircraft: Flight Design CTLS. Injuries: None. Location: Conway, Ark. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot reported that the straight-in approach was normal, but the right main landing gear collapsed upon touchdown. The airplane went off the right side of the runway.
A laboratory examination of the damaged gear leg revealed a longitudinal crack along the leading edge of the right landing gear leg and a transverse fracture near the point where the leg intersected the fuselage. Investigators determined the damage was consistent with a bending load, with the lower surface in tension and the upper surface in compression.
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing and over-stress failure of the right main landing gear.
NTSB Identification: CEN12LA476
This July 2012 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.