AAIB investigation to Falco F8L, G-HCBW

Falco F8L (G-HCBW), left landing gear partial collapse during landing, Headcorn Aerodrome, Kent, 27 August 2024

During takeoff the aircraft bounced and, as a result of a cross wind, came down on its left wheel before climbing away. Despite the pilot’s attempts to retract the landing gear, using both the normal and emergency systems, the landing gear would not retract. The pilot reselected down but although the green down light was illuminated, the pilot took additional steps to ensure the gear was down. However, on landing the left gear partially collapsed bending its retraction screwjack. It is likely the left landing gear mechanism was damaged after the bounce during which higher than normal side loads may have occurred.

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Falco F8L, G-HCBW 1-25

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Published 9 January 2025