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Nose gear collapse after takeoff due to retraction malfunction (N504GH)

New Braintree, MA, US

On October 28, 1989, a North American T-28B (registration N504GH) operated by Leonard A. Tanner was involved in an aviation accident near New Braintree, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE NOSE GEAR, WHICH FAILED TO RETRACT WITH THE MAIN LANDING GEAR AFTER TAKEOFF; THE GEAR WAS OBSERVED TO BE MISALIGNED, AND COLLAPSED DURING THE AIRCRAFT'S TOUCHDOWN. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot reported no nose gear up indication after takeoff. Ground observers noted the gear rotated out of orientation. The nose gear collapsed on touchdown; cause undetermined.

What happened

During the initial climb phase, the pilot attempted to retract the landing gear following takeoff. He did not receive the expected 'nose gear up' indication on the cockpit panel. Suspecting a malfunction, he cycled the gear mechanism again. Ground observers watching the aircraft reported that the nose gear appeared to have rotated out of proper orientation during this process. Upon touchdown at the destination, the nose gear collapsed.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the landing gear system after the incident. Investigators examined the gear assembly and associated hydraulic or electrical components for signs of failure. However, the specific cause of the nose gear malfunction was not determined through the available evidence.

Findings

  • The pilot did not receive a nose gear up indication after retraction attempt.
  • Ground observers reported the nose gear rotated out of proper orientation.
  • The nose gear collapsed upon touchdown.
  • The cause of the nose gear malfunction was not determined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Oct 1989 North American T-28B accident near New Braintree, MA?

The pilot reported no nose gear up indication after takeoff. Ground observers noted the gear rotated out of orientation. The nose gear collapsed on touchdown; cause undetermined.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Oct 1989 involved a North American T-28B, registration N504GH, operated by Leonard A. Tanner, at New Braintree, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE FAILURE OF THE NOSE GEAR, WHICH FAILED TO RETRACT WITH THE MAIN LANDING GEAR AFTER TAKEOFF; THE GEAR WAS OBSERVED TO BE MISALIGNED, AND COLLAPSED DURING THE AIRCRAFT'S TOUCHDOWN.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29686. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.