Casualties unknown

Missing Landing Gear Door Components Found After Hydraulic System Failure (N751PA)

MB

On April 14, 1984, a Boeing 747-121 (registration N751PA) operated by Pan American (paaa) was involved in an aviation accident near MB. 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
Boeing 747-121
Photo: Tosaka / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Crew experienced loss of #4 hydraulic pressure, warning lights, and unusual sounds during climb. Investigation revealed missing landing gear door actuator and associated hardware. Boeing issued service bulletin on crack detection.

Incident Overview

While climbing through flight level 200 (FL200), the flight crew experienced a loss of pressure in the #4 hydraulic system. The red "GEAR DOOR" and "LEFT WING DOOR OPEN" lights illuminated. A medium-frequency vibration and a loud rushing sound were also noted. The flight diverted to Miami, Florida, where a landing was made without further incident.

Investigation Findings

Subsequent examination disclosed that the left wing landing gear door actuator, the actuator beam assembly, and associated keel beam box attaching hardware were missing. The absence of these components was identified as the source of the hydraulic system pressure loss and the associated warnings.

Manufacturer Response

Following the incident, Boeing issued a service bulletin concerning the detection of cracks in the internal back-up brackets and fittings for the wing gear door actuating system. The bulletin provides guidance for inspecting these components to prevent similar occurrences.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Apr 1984 Boeing 747-121 accident near MB?

Crew experienced loss of #4 hydraulic pressure, warning lights, and unusual sounds during climb. Investigation revealed missing landing gear door actuator and associated hardware. Boeing issued service bulletin on crack detection.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Apr 1984 involved a Boeing 747-121, registration N751PA, operated by Pan American (paaa), at MB.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39337. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.