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.
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.