Probable cause
Landing gear collapse for reasons that could not be determined because testing could not replicate the problem.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he lowered the landing gear and observed three green annunciator lights. Shortly after touching down, the nose gear collapsed. The airplane began drifting to the left and the right main gear collapsed, followed by the collapse of the left main gear. Postaccident examination revealed the landing gear handle was in the UP position. The pilot said he may have hit the handle inadvertently when the nose gear collapsed and he was thrown forward. The hydraulic reservoir was full and there was no sign of leakage. The main gears extended when the emergency extension handle was pulled. Proper travel of the landing gear handle was noted at the selector valve.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA456 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 22, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Metropolis, Illinois
- Nearest airport
- Metropolis Municipal (KM30)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-46-310P
- N-number
- N43840
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.