Casualties unknown

Right Gear Collapse During Landing Due to Flagging Equipment Failure (N92593)

Hardin, MT, US

On March 28, 1984, a Cessna A188B (registration N92593) operated by Larry J Romine was involved in an aviation accident near Hardin, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The collapse of the right landing gear during landing, which occurred as the aircraft swerved due to issues with the flagging equipment, despite no mechanical failure being found in the gear or brakes. 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

A crop duster returned to the airfield with spray solution on board after a flagger malfunctioned. The aircraft swerved during landing, causing the right gear to collapse despite no mechanical failure.

What happened

The pilot returned to the airport carrying approximately 100 gallons of spray solution. This return was necessitated by a malfunction with the flagging equipment, which failed to operate as required for safe ground operations. During the subsequent landing phase, the aircraft began to swerve laterally toward both the left and right sides. This instability resulted in the collapse of the right landing gear.

The investigation

A thorough examination of the aircraft was conducted following the incident. Investigators found no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures within the landing gear system itself. Additionally, the braking system was inspected and determined to be free of defects that could have contributed to the swerving or gear failure.

Probable cause

The collapse of the right landing gear during landing, which occurred as the aircraft swerved due to issues with the flagging equipment, despite no mechanical failure being found in the gear or brakes.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39018. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.