Probable cause
Maintenance personnel's installation of an oversized tire, which prevented the left main landing gear from extending resulting in a precautionary gear up landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the approach, the left main landing gear did not extend. The pilot attempted to cycle the landing gear and utilize the alternate landing gear extension system; however, the left main landing gear remained in the stowed position. The pilot chose to perform a gear up landing, which resulted in substantial damage to both engine mounts. The pilot reported that a postaccident examination revealed that the landing gear tires were incorrect part number and oversized by about 1 inch, and maintenance personnel changed the tires two days before the accident. Due to the oversized tire, the left main landing gear became wedged in the wheel well, which prevented the landing gear from extending.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN26LA166 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 9, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Colorado Springs (COS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Diamond Aircraft Ind Gmbh DA 42 NG
- N-number
- N311LH
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2005
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Positioning
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.