Casualties unknown

1984-02-07: Piper PA-600 (N8073J) — Newark, NJ

Newark, NJ, US

On February 7, 1984, a Piper PA-600 (registration N8073J) was involved in an aviation accident near Newark, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper inspection procedures that failed to disclose a fatigue and cracked surface in the torque link. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft veered off the runway during landing roll, struck a taxiway marker sign, and subsequently experienced a right main landing gear collapse. Investigation revealed fatigue fracture in the torque link and improper inspection procedures.

Event Description

During the landing roll, the aircraft began to veer from the runway. The pilot attempted to maintain directional control, but the aircraft departed the runway and collided with a taxiway marker sign. This collision caused substantial damage to the aircraft. Shortly after the collision, the right main landing gear collapsed.

Landing Gear Examination

Examination of the landing gear torque link revealed a fractured surface characteristic of fatigue progression. The investigation found evidence that improper inspection procedures had been used, which failed to disclose the fatigue and cracked surface in the torque link.

Investigation Findings

The investigation did not specify any other contributing factors beyond the improper inspection that allowed the pre-existing fatigue crack to go undetected. No information was provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, time of day, weather conditions, ATC involvement, or occupant status.

Probable cause

Improper inspection procedures that failed to disclose a fatigue and cracked surface in the torque link.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38900. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.