On May 6, 1989, a Piper PA-34-200T (registration N859SC) operated by Gulf Flight Center was involved in an aviation accident near Miami, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fatigue failure of the left main landing gear trunnion, originating at a grinding mark. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After touchdown, the left main landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway. Investigation revealed the trunnion failed from fatigue originating at a grinding mark.
Incident Description
The pilot reported that after the aircraft touched down and rolled approximately 400 to 600 feet, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway.
Investigation Findings
Examination revealed the left main landing gear trunnion had failed from fatigue. The failure occurred through the barrel next to the lower end of the fillet. A metallurgical examination showed the fatigue originated at the base of a grinding mark. Several secondary cracks were also found originating from grinding marks adjacent to the fatigue fracture.
Inspection History
The aircraft logbook indicated the trunnion had been inspected at the last 100-hour inspection in accordance with Piper Service Bulletin #787A. The aircraft had flown approximately 80 hours since that inspection. The service bulletin required to "properly clean the trunnion housing of dirt and paint and carefully inspect the housing for cracks with a 10 power glass at the lower end of the fillet."
Probable cause
Fatigue failure of the left main landing gear trunnion, originating at a grinding mark.
What happened in the 6 May 1989 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Miami, FL?
After touchdown, the left main landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway. Investigation revealed the trunnion failed from fatigue originating at a grinding mark.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 May 1989 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N859SC, operated by Gulf Flight Center, at Miami, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fatigue failure of the left main landing gear trunnion, originating at a grinding mark.
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