Casualties unknown

Main Landing Gear Collapse During Rollout Leads to Runway Excursion (N6252Q)

Linden, NJ, US

On February 18, 1984, a Cessna 401A (registration N6252Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Linden, NJ. 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

After a normal landing, the left main landing gear collapsed during rollout, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and become stuck in mud. Inspection revealed a fractured bellcrank mounting bolt and a broken clevis ear.

Incident Sequence

A certified flight instructor (CFI) who was awaiting takeoff observed the aircraft's approach and touchdown, reporting that both were normal with the landing gear extended. As the aircraft continued its rollout, the left main landing gear suddenly collapsed. The aircraft gradually left the runway surface and became mired in mud.

Inspection Findings

Post-incident inspection of the left main landing gear revealed that the retraction bellcrank had broken free from its mounting clevis. The attach bolt was found fractured near the head. Additionally, the forward clevis ear was broken. Neither the bolt head nor the fractured portion of the forward clevis ear were recovered.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38891. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.