Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Collapse During Landing Following Electrical and Communication Failure (N7937D)

Abilene, TX, US

On October 24, 1982, a Beech H35 (registration N7937D) operated by Charles Brown/texas Air Center was involved in an aviation accident near Abilene, TX. 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

The pilot extended the landing gear early to control speed, but lost all lights and radio communication. Assuming gear was down due to trim change, the gear collapsed during landing after an 8-hour flight.

Incident Overview

During a landing approach, the pilot extended the landing gear approximately 10 to 15 miles from the airport to reduce speed and manage descent. Prior to landing, the pilot noted that none of the aircraft's lights were functioning and was unable to establish communication with Abilene Radio. Despite these failures, the pilot continued the approach, relying on a perceived trim change to confirm that the landing gear was extended.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that he assumed the landing gear was down and locked because he felt a change in the aircraft's trim. As the nose gear made contact with the runway during landing, all three landing gear assemblies collapsed. The pilot attributed the incident to complacency, stating that he had become complacent after flying for 8 hours.

Outcome

The landing gear collapse occurred upon touchdown, with no further details provided regarding aircraft damage or occupant status. No information was available concerning weather conditions or air traffic control involvement beyond the loss of radio contact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Oct 1982 Beech H35 accident near Abilene, TX?

The pilot extended the landing gear early to control speed, but lost all lights and radio communication. Assuming gear was down due to trim change, the gear collapsed during landing after an 8-hour flight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Oct 1982 involved a Beech H35, registration N7937D, operated by Charles Brown/texas Air Center, at Abilene, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04691. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.