On July 17, 1987, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7722Y) operated by Lee Schumacher was involved in an aviation accident near Grandforks, ND. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Nose gear centering mechanism dislodged and binding. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot on a personal cross-country flight experienced a landing gear malfunction after takeoff. Attempts to extend the gear failed, and the pilot performed a gear-up landing at the home airport. Investigation found the nose gear centering mechanism dislodged and binding.
Incident Overview
A commercial pilot was on a cross-country flight for personal purposes. Shortly after takeoff, during the gear retraction sequence, a loud noise was heard in the cockpit.
Sequence of Events
Upon reaching the first intended destination, the pilot attempted to lower the landing gear, but the gear did not extend. A manual extension procedure was attempted, but it was unsuccessful. The pilot then decided to return to the home airport and executed a gear-up landing, which concluded without further incident.
Post-Accident Investigation
A detailed examination of the aircraft after the landing revealed evidence that the nose gear centering mechanism had become dislodged and was binding. This condition likely prevented the normal extension of the landing gear.
Probable cause
Nose gear centering mechanism dislodged and binding.