Casualties unknown

1987-05-06: Beech E-55 (N713DM) — Chris Shurburtt — Spartanburg, SC

Spartanburg, SC, US

On May 6, 1987, a Beech E-55 (registration N713DM) operated by Chris Shurburtt was involved in an aviation accident near Spartanburg, SC. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported lowering gear with a down-and-locked indication on final approach, but during rollout the nose gear collapsed after braking, followed by the right main gear. Post-crash exam found no pre-existing malfunction.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during final approach, the landing gear was lowered and a down-and-locked indication was observed on the landing gear position light. However, during the rollout following touchdown, the pilot felt a severe vibration in the nose gear. In an attempt to reduce the vibration, the pilot pulled back on the yoke. The pilot then applied the brakes, at which point the nose gear collapsed. As the aircraft slid to a stop, the right main gear also collapsed.

Cockpit and Exterior Events

Smoke began to fill the cockpit, prompting the pilot to exit the aircraft through the emergency exit. Rescue personnel who responded to the accident reported finding the aircraft resting gear-up on the runway. An A&P mechanic who was on scene assisted in extinguishing a fire that had broken out and entered the aircraft afterward. The mechanic reported finding the gear selector lever in the 'UP' position and the flap selector in the 'DOWN' position.

Post-Crash Examination

A post-crash examination of the aircraft by the FAA revealed no evidence of pre-existing malfunction or mechanical failure in the landing gear down-lock system. Additionally, the inboard main landing gear doors were observed to be partially ground away.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30856. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.