Casualties unknown

Loss of Electrical Power Leads to Landing Gear Collapse at Kentucky Dam Airport (N1476G)

Gilbertsville, KY, US

On April 3, 1991, a Beech P35 (registration N1476G) operated by Roger Hodges was involved in an aviation accident near Gilbertsville, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILUE TO ENSURE THE GEAR WAS FULLY EXTENDED DURING A PRECAUTIONARY LANDING AFTER THE LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost electrical power, lost radio contact, and diverted to Kentucky Dam Airport. After lowering gear with the switch, he assumed it was locked, but the gear collapsed on touchdown.

Incident

A pilot experienced a total loss of electrical power during flight. The issue was first identified when Memphis Center advised the pilot that they were losing his radio transmissions. In response, the pilot deviated to Kentucky Dam Airport.

Landing Gear Deployment

Approaching the airport, the pilot used the landing gear switch to lower the gear. He reported feeling the gear go down. Although he acknowledged that the landing gear position lights were inoperable due to the electrical failure, he proceeded under the assumption that the gear was down and locked.

Touchdown and Collapse

Upon touchdown on the runway, the landing gear collapsed. The aircraft sustained damage as a result of the gear failing to support the landing.

Pilot's Report

In his report, the pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented by mechanically lowering the landing gear and confirming that it was down and locked through an alternative method, rather than relying solely on the gear switch and tactile feedback.

No other details about the aircraft, occupants, or weather were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16736. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.