Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Collapses During Taxi After Glider Tow (N88049)

Jacumba, CA, US

On June 26, 1982, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N88049) operated by Assoc. Glider Clubs OF S. Ca. was involved in an aviation accident near Jacumba, 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

After towing a glider, a pilot landed and while taxiing, the left main gear collapsed, damaging the left wing and propeller. Investigation found a failed landing gear attaching U-bolt with rust.

Incident Details

A pilot returned to the airport after towing a glider and executed a landing. During taxi, the left main landing gear collapsed, resulting in damage to the left wing and propeller.

Investigation Findings

Examination revealed that a landing gear attaching U-bolt, part number 1-10376, had failed. Approximately 50% of the fracture surface exhibited rust.

Maintenance Background

The maintenance officer reported that the bolts were inspected frequently and that several fractured bolts had been discovered and replaced in the past. The manufacturer recommended replacement of the bolt every 500 flight hours. The total time accumulated on the failed bolt could not be determined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jun 1982 Bellanca 8GCBC accident near Jacumba, CA?

After towing a glider, a pilot landed and while taxiing, the left main gear collapsed, damaging the left wing and propeller. Investigation found a failed landing gear attaching U-bolt with rust.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jun 1982 involved a Bellanca 8GCBC, registration N88049, operated by Assoc. Glider Clubs OF S. Ca., at Jacumba, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03705. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.