Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands with Gear Retracted at Uncontrolled Airport Amidst Returning Airshow Aircraft (N9824R)

Coalinga, CA, US

On June 6, 1982, a Beech M35 (registration N9824R) operated by Stephen D. Rosenthal was involved in an aviation accident near Coalinga, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landing at an uncontrolled airport failed to extend landing gear after observing planes on the runup pad and hearing no radio transmissions from departing aircraft; later learned many older models were returning from an airshow.

Incident Overview

A pilot arriving at an uncontrolled airport observed a group of airplanes on the runup pad located at the approach end of the runway. As the pilot continued the arrival and approach, radio calls were made announcing intentions, but no transmissions from the departing airplanes were heard. When the pilot was less than one mile on final approach, the last airplane in the group was departing. Subsequently, the pilot landed with the landing gear retracted.

Post-Accident Discovery

After the accident, the pilot learned that many older model aircraft were present at the airport, having been returning from an airshow.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Jun 1982 Beech M35 accident near Coalinga, CA?

A pilot landing at an uncontrolled airport failed to extend landing gear after observing planes on the runup pad and hearing no radio transmissions from departing aircraft; later learned many older models were returning from an airshow.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Jun 1982 involved a Beech M35, registration N9824R, operated by Stephen D. Rosenthal, at Coalinga, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03554. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.