On October 16, 1984, a Piper PA-34-220T (registration N8011J) was involved in an aviation accident near Creede, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right main gear downlock being frozen by ice in the up position, which prevented proper gear extension and resulted in gear collapse upon landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft landed with right main gear collapsed after gear warning horn sounded at 5 feet AGL. Mechanic found downlock frozen by ice in up position.
What happened
The pilot reported that just prior to landing, the aircraft was approximately 5 feet above ground level when the gear warning horn activated. Simultaneously, the light indicating the right main gear was down and locked began to flicker. Despite these indications, the pilot continued with the landing. During the rollout phase on the runway, the right main gear collapsed.
The investigation
A mechanic examined the aircraft following the incident and discovered that the right main gear downlock was frozen in the up position due to ice accumulation. This prevented the gear from fully extending and locking securely for landing. No other mechanical failures were identified during the subsequent repair process.
Probable cause
The right main gear downlock being frozen by ice in the up position, which prevented proper gear extension and resulted in gear collapse upon landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Oct 1984 Piper PA-34-220T accident near Creede, CO?
Aircraft landed with right main gear collapsed after gear warning horn sounded at 5 feet AGL. Mechanic found downlock frozen by ice in up position.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Oct 1984 involved a Piper PA-34-220T, registration N8011J, at Creede, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The right main gear downlock being frozen by ice in the up position, which prevented proper gear extension and resulted in gear collapse upon landing.
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