N9578X

On November 7, 2014, at 1730 mountain standard time, a Cessna 210B, N9578X, experienced a landing gear malfunction after takeoff from Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport, Bullhead City, Arizona. Tristate Careflight LLC operated the airplane under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 91. The commercial pilot and three passengers were uninjured, and the airplane sustained substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer during the landing. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.

The pilot stated that after takeoff he heard a loud bang after he moved the landing gear handle to the UP position. The landing gear indication lights were not illuminated. He cycled the landing gear handle, which had no effect. He also determined that the flaps would not operate. During a low pass the tower informed the pilot that the landing gear were in a transit position (not retracted, not locked down). The pilot attempted to execute the emergency gear extension procedure, which was not successful. During the landing the gear completely collapsed, the airplane slid to a stop on its belly and tipped to the left, damaging the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that an airframe and power plant mechanic visually examined the landing gear actuator, and stated that the actuator housing had split, allowing the loss of hydraulic system pressure. No further examination was accomplished and the reason for the housing failure was not determined.