Beech A100 N945WS accident near Latrobe, Pennsylvania

Probable cause

A landing gear collapse due to the separation of the actuator pinion bearing support from the actuator, which resulted in the failure of the actuator shaft.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, while lowering the landing gear handle in preparation for landing, he and the co-pilot heard a crunching noise. He noticed that the landing gear indicator lights did not turn green, and the crew was unable to extend the gear manually. The crew diverted to an airport with emergency equipment and a control tower. Following a fly-by, the tower controller reported that the landing gear appeared to be extended; however, during the landing roll, the left main landing gear collapsed, followed by the right main landing gear, resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. Examination of the airplane revealed that the main landing gear mechanical linkage was compromised, and the right main landing gear actuator shaft was broken. A mechanic examined the airplane and found that the actuator pinion bearing support had separated from the actuator for undetermined reasons, causing a side load to the actuator and initiating the fracture.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA19LA123 for the full record.