Casualties unknown

Aircraft Landing on Highway Ends in Gear Collapse and Fire Attempt (N52LL)

Twentynine Palm, CA, US

On October 23, 1983, a Cessna 402B (registration N52LL) was involved in an aviation accident near Twentynine Palm, 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft landed on a state highway but veered off during the landing roll, causing the right main gear to go onto a soft shoulder. The pilot lost control, hit a berm, and the gear collapsed. Evidence suggested drug cargo and a post-crash fire attempt.

Incident Details

The aircraft touched down on a state highway in a westerly direction. During the landing roll, the right main gear departed the paved surface and entered a soft, sandy shoulder area. This caused the pilot to lose control. The aircraft subsequently struck a berm, and the landing gear collapsed.

Aftermath

When authorities arrived at the scene, the pilot was not identified, and no passengers or witnesses were present. Examination of the aircraft and cargo revealed indications that the cargo may have contained drugs. Additionally, there was evidence suggesting an attempt was made to set the aircraft on fire after the crash landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44892. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.