Casualties unknown

Main Landing Gear Collapse During Landing Roll Due to Hydraulic Leak and Faulty Indication (N731EZ)

Las Vegas, NV, US

On February 17, 1985, a Cessna P210 (registration N731EZ) operated by Scott Shaw was involved in an aviation accident near Las Vegas, NV. 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

A hydraulic leak from a chafed suction line depleted the power pack reservoir, preventing main gear extension. The warning horn was inoperative, and the pilot reported a false gear-down light.

Hydraulic System Failure

The hydraulic power pack reservoir became depleted due to a leak in the hand pump suction line. The line had been chafed through by interference with the right rudder cable. Despite the leak, sufficient back pressure remained to lower and lock the nose gear, but the main gear did not extend beyond the over-center locks.

Landing Gear Collapse

During the landing roll, the main gear collapsed because it was not fully extended. The landing gear warning horn was improperly rigged and not functional.

Pilot Indication Discrepancy

The pilot stated that he observed a gear-down indication light. However, the indicating system was found to be properly calibrated. According to the system design, a gear-down light could only be displayed if the main gear were fully extended. The pilot’s statement regarding the gear-down indication was in error.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Feb 1985 Cessna P210 accident near Las Vegas, NV?

A hydraulic leak from a chafed suction line depleted the power pack reservoir, preventing main gear extension. The warning horn was inoperative, and the pilot reported a false gear-down light.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Feb 1985 involved a Cessna P210, registration N731EZ, operated by Scott Shaw, at Las Vegas, NV.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35795. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.