Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Collapses at Runway Intersection After Pilot Intended Turnoff (N2080P)

Lawrence, MA, US

On March 24, 1984, a Piper PA-23 (registration N2080P) was involved in an aviation accident near Lawrence, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Sand in the hinge area of the landing gear reportedly prevented the landing gear from properly locking in the down position. 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 landing, the pilot rolled to the intersection of runways 32 and 23 to exit. The right landing gear retracted, the aircraft skidded, then the left gear collapsed. Sand in the hinge area reportedly prevented proper locking.

Incident Sequence

The pilot completed the landing and allowed the aircraft to roll out to the intersection of runways 32 and 23, where he intended to turn off the active runway. Upon reaching the intersection, the right landing gear collapsed—meaning it retracted—and the aircraft skidded to the right. The aircraft came to a stop in the intersection. Subsequently, the left landing gear also collapsed.

Examination Findings

Later, the aircraft was placed on jacks, and the landing gear was pumped down. An examination revealed no evidence of a mechanical problem, except sand was found in the hinge area of the landing gear. Reportedly, the sand would have prevented the landing gear from properly locking in the down position.

Summary of Facts

No mechanical defects other than sand contamination were identified. The sand in the hinge area is believed to have interfered with the locking mechanism, though the source does not explicitly state this as the cause. The aircraft was moved after the incident, and no other contributing factors were noted.

Probable cause

Sand in the hinge area of the landing gear reportedly prevented the landing gear from properly locking in the down position.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39165. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.