Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Retraction During Landing Causes Runway Excursion (N6166H)

Hesperia, CA, US

On August 6, 1985, a Piper PA-28R-201T (registration N6166H) operated by Tri State Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Hesperia, CA. 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

After a cross-country flight, the pilot extended the landing gear and observed three green indications. During touchdown, the right main gear retracted, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway.

Incident Overview

A pilot completing a cross-country flight placed the landing gear selector in the down position and subsequently observed three green lights indicating gear down and locked. The aircraft touched down normally, but as weight was placed onto the landing gear, the right main gear retracted. The aircraft then veered off the runway and slid to a stop.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the incident, the landing gear and the gear retraction system were examined. The examination found that the system operated normally and appeared to be undamaged. Despite thorough inspection, the reason for the right gear's retraction was not determined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Aug 1985 Piper PA-28R-201T accident near Hesperia, CA?

After a cross-country flight, the pilot extended the landing gear and observed three green indications. During touchdown, the right main gear retracted, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Aug 1985 involved a Piper PA-28R-201T, registration N6166H, operated by Tri State Aviation, Inc., at Hesperia, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37522. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.