Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Gear Retraction Leads to Runway Emergency Landing (N5254C)

Long Beach, CA, US

On November 5, 1983, a Beech B35 (registration N5254C) was involved in an aviation accident near Long Beach, 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

During takeoff, the pilot reported simultaneous engine power loss while raising the landing gear. An emergency landing was performed on the remaining runway, resulting in wing and gear damage.

Incident Details

During the takeoff roll, the pilot raised the landing gear. At the same time, the engine lost power, according to the pilot's report. The pilot then initiated an emergency landing on the remaining portion of the runway.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that the aircraft stalled while he was holding it in a nose-high attitude and attempting to extend the landing gear. The aircraft subsequently struck the runway, with the left wing contacting first while the landing gear was in transit.

Aircraft Damage

The outboard third of the left wing was bent upward. The left landing gear punctured the wing, and the right landing gear collapsed. Additional damage was noted to the fuselage, engine cowling, and propeller.

Engine Test

Later, a test run of the engine was conducted. During the test, the engine operated normally with no issues reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Nov 1983 Beech B35 accident near Long Beach, CA?

During takeoff, the pilot reported simultaneous engine power loss while raising the landing gear. An emergency landing was performed on the remaining runway, resulting in wing and gear damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Nov 1983 involved a Beech B35, registration N5254C, at Long Beach, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45092. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.