Piper PA-28R-180 N4534J accident near Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Probable cause

The collapse of the right main landing gear during landing for reasons that could not be duplicated or determined during the postaccident investigation because of the initial unavailability of the airplane after the accident.

NTSB analysis

The pilot lowered the landing gear during the approach and the three green landing gear indicator lights illuminated. About 500 to 600 feet after the airplane touched down, the pilot applied the brakes and the right main landing gear collapsed. An annual inspection, which involved servicing and inspecting the main landing gear, was completed 10 days before the accident. Due to the inaccessibility of the airplane, a postaccident examination of the landing gear was performed 8 months after the accident, at which time a mechanic placed the airplane on jacks, conducted an operational check of the landing gear, and examined the landing gear and its components for defects. The examination revealed evidence of corrosion, binding, and a lack of lubrication in the right main landing gear down-lock; however, the airplane was stored outside for 8 months after the accident, and it is possible that the corrosion and binding of the right main landing gear were the result of its exposure to the elements during that time.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA13LA049 for the full record.