Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Collapse During Landing Following Electrical Issue (N6979B)

Smithfield, NC, US

On September 2, 1992, a Cessna 210M (registration N6979B) operated by Montague, Harvey L. was involved in an aviation accident near Smithfield, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S OPERATION OF THE AIRPLANE WITH KNOWN ELECTRICAL DEFICIENCIES WHICH RESULTED IN A FAILURE OF THE LANDING GEAR HYDRAULIC POWERPACK. THE PILOT ALSO FAILED TO FOLLOW EMERGENCY PROCEDURES FOR LOWERING THE LANDING GEAR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a landing gear malfunction after takeoff; the right main gear collapsed during landing, causing a runway excursion. Examination revealed a slipped alternator diode.

Preflight and Departure

Upon arriving at the airport, the pilot discovered the airplane's battery was weak. He requested an electrical boost from a local mechanic, which allowed the engine to be started. After starting the engine, the pilot let it run for several minutes before taxiing to the runway. The pilot reported that the runup procedure was normal. He turned off all electrical equipment, leaving only one communication radio on.

In-Flight Malfunction

After liftoff, the pilot found that the landing gear would not retract completely. He elected to continue the flight. While en route, he attempted to manually lower the main landing gear. During this attempt, he felt pressure on the emergency extension handle and decided to discontinue the extension operation.

Landing and Wreckage Recovery

During the landing roll at the destination airport, the right main landing gear collapsed, and the airplane veered off the right side of the runway. As the right wing was lifted up during the wreckage recovery phase, the pilot lowered the right main gear with the emergency extension handle.

Electrical System Examination

Examination of the electrical system disclosed that a diode in the alternator had slipped from its normally installed position.

Probable Cause

The investigation report did not provide a stated probable cause.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15589. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.