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Alternator Failure Leads to Forced Landing and Gear Collapse in Lamar, Colorado (N3042Z)

Lamar, CO, US

On March 27, 1989, a Beech F33A (registration N3042Z) operated by Ruth M. Davis was involved in an aviation accident near Lamar, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF AN ALTERNATOR BEARING WHICH RESULTED IN TOTAL LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER AFTER THE BATTERY BECAME DISCHARGED, AND FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO INSURE THE GEAR WAS FULLY EXTENDED DURING A PRECAUTIONARY LANDING. 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

During a cross-country flight, an alternator warning light prompted a diversion to Lamar, Colorado. After electrical depletion, the pilot manually extended gear and landed on a road; all three gear collapsed and the aircraft went off the road. Investigation found an alternator bearing failure; no cause for low oil pressure was found.

Narrative

During a cross-country flight, the alternator out light illuminated. The pilot diverted to the closest airport, which was in Lamar, Colorado. By the time the aircraft arrived at Lamar, the electrical system had become depleted. Because the landing gear extension normally relies on the electrical system, the pilot was unable to extend the gear electrically. She then manually extended the landing gear to what she thought was the fully extended position. The engine oil pressure gauge was indicating low, leading the pilot to choose to land on a road.

On landing, all three landing gear collapsed. Before the aircraft came to a stop, it went off the side of the road and was further damaged.

Investigation

A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed that an alternator bearing had failed. No reason for the reported drop in oil pressure was found.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 1989 Beech F33A accident near Lamar, CO?

During a cross-country flight, an alternator warning light prompted a diversion to Lamar, Colorado. After electrical depletion, the pilot manually extended gear and landed on a road; all three gear collapsed and the aircraft went off the road. Investigation found an alternator bearing failure; no cause for low oil…

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Mar 1989 Beech F33A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 1989 involved a Beech F33A, registration N3042Z, operated by Ruth M. Davis, at Lamar, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF AN ALTERNATOR BEARING WHICH RESULTED IN TOTAL LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER AFTER THE BATTERY BECAME DISCHARGED, AND FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO INSURE THE GEAR WAS FULLY EXTENDED DURING A PRECAUTIONARY LANDING. THE PILOT'S LACK OF FAMILIARITY WITH THE GEAR EXTENSION SYSTEM WAS A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27884. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.