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NTSB Report
February 3, 2009 · Piper PA-24-250 · N5451P
Mineral Wells, TX
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
February 3, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Mineral Wells, TX
Aircraft
Piper PA-24-250
Tail Number
N5451P
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN09CA169
While departing the airport, the airplane's landing gear system failed to fully retract when actuated by the private pilot. Several attempts were made by the pilot to fully lower the landing gear, including the use of the "emergency landing gear system." The pilot elected to return to the airport and land in the grass parallel to the runway. During the landing the airplane's firewall was damaged. An inspection conducted on the airplane revealed that the wire cables which operate the landing gear were insufficiently lubricated during the previous annual inspection which was accomplished 18 days prior to the accident.
NTSB Probable Cause
The failure of the airframe and power plant mechanic to ensure proper lubrication of wire cables in the landing gear system during the annual inspection which precluded safe operation of the landing gear system.
Full Narrative
On initial climb the airplane's landing gear failed to fully retract. Several attempts made by the pilot to lower the landing gear, including the use of the emergency landing gear system, were unsuccessful. The pilot returned to the airport and land in the grass parallel to the runway. Without properly configured gear, the airplane's firewall was damaged during the landing. Responding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors discovered the wire cables which operate the landing gear were insufficiently lubricated during the previous annual inspection which was accomplished 18 days prior to the accident.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time18:50 CST
Nearest AirportMineral Wells Airport (0nm)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA-24-250
Tail NumberN5451P
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-540 · Reciprocating · 250
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 64 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDusk
Wind200° @ 5 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point50 / 9 C
Altimeter30.22 inHg
Observation Time00:53
Weather SourceWFAC