Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Lands with Partially Extended Landing Gear After Malfunction (N7291P)

Broomfield, CO, US

On November 23, 1987, a Piper PA-24-180 (registration N7291P) operated by Ford, Robert A. was involved in an aviation accident near Broomfield, CO. 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 private pilot returning to home airport after an hour of flight attempted to land but could not extend landing gear properly. Manual extension failed, and gear remained partially extended. A landing was made on Runway 11L. Post-accident inspection found improper and undocumented maintenance.

Flight Details

A private pilot, who was flying to accumulate flight time, returned to the home airport after approximately one hour of flight. The pilot then attempted to land.

Landing Gear Malfunction

During the landing approach, the landing gear would not extend properly. The pilot attempted manual gear extension, but it did not resolve the issue. All landing gear remained partially extended and could not be retracted.

Landing

With the landing gear in a partially extended position, the pilot made a landing on Runway 11L. The outcome of the landing is not detailed in the source.

Post-Accident Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed evidence of improper and undocumented maintenance in the landing gear system.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Nov 1987 Piper PA-24-180 accident near Broomfield, CO?

A private pilot returning to home airport after an hour of flight attempted to land but could not extend landing gear properly. Manual extension failed, and gear remained partially extended. A landing was made on Runway 11L. Post-accident inspection found improper and undocumented maintenance.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Nov 1987 involved a Piper PA-24-180, registration N7291P, operated by Ford, Robert A., at Broomfield, CO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32518. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.