Casualties unknown

Nose Gear Warning Precedes Runway Overrun and Gear Collapse (N39589)

Port Mansfield, TX, US

On June 29, 1983, a Piper PA-32RT-300T (registration N39589) operated by Budak Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Port Mansfield, 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

A pilot aborted takeoff after nose gear warning lights, but the aircraft overran the runway, crossed a ditch, and all three landing gear collapsed. The aircraft was over its maximum gross weight.

Incident Overview

During the takeoff roll, the pilot observed the nose gear position light flickering and the nose gear unsafe light illuminated just before rotation. The pilot aborted the takeoff, but the aircraft could not stop and departed the runway end at a speed of 65 to 70 knots.

Events During Overrun

The aircraft rolled through a ditch located approximately 75 yards from the runway end. The impact caused all three landing gear to collapse.

Post-Accident Examination

Due to damage sustained during the accident, the mechanical condition of the nose gear could not be evaluated. Investigators were unable to determine the cause of the warning lights.

Weight Investigation

The aircraft was estimated to be between 339 and 456 pounds over its maximum gross weight at the time of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jun 1983 Piper PA-32RT-300T accident near Port Mansfield, TX?

A pilot aborted takeoff after nose gear warning lights, but the aircraft overran the runway, crossed a ditch, and all three landing gear collapsed. The aircraft was over its maximum gross weight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jun 1983 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300T, registration N39589, operated by Budak Aviation, at Port Mansfield, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43365. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.