Casualties unknown

Electrical Malfunction Leads to Landing Gear Collapse During Landing (N8678Y)

Jacksonville, FL, US

On December 14, 1984, a Piper PA-30 (registration N8678Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Jacksonville, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Electrical malfunctions caused the loss of air-to-ground communications and aircraft navigational equipment. 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

An aircraft experienced electrical malfunctions causing loss of communications and navigation. The pilot became lost 70 miles east of Jacksonville, FL. With help from other aircraft, the airport was located. Upon touchdown, all three landing gear collapsed.

Incident Overview

The aircraft suffered electrical malfunctions that resulted in the loss of air-to-ground communications and navigational equipment. The pilot became disoriented approximately 70 miles east of Jacksonville, Florida.

Assistance from Other Aircraft

With the help of another aircraft, the pilot was able to locate the airport and temporarily re-establish radio communications. A second aircraft was then used to guide the flight to the correct runway.

Landing Gear Collapse

As the landing gear were extended, according to the pilot, electrical power was completely lost. On touchdown, all three landing gear collapsed.

Probable cause

Electrical malfunctions caused the loss of air-to-ground communications and aircraft navigational equipment.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Dec 1984 Piper PA-30 accident near Jacksonville, FL?

An aircraft experienced electrical malfunctions causing loss of communications and navigation. The pilot became lost 70 miles east of Jacksonville, FL. With help from other aircraft, the airport was located. Upon touchdown, all three landing gear collapsed.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Dec 1984 involved a Piper PA-30, registration N8678Y, at Jacksonville, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Electrical malfunctions caused the loss of air-to-ground communications and aircraft navigational equipment.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41853. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.