Casualties unknown

Gear-Up Landing Following Nose Gear Retraction and Extension Issue (N7392P)

Columbia, SC, US

On June 4, 1995, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N7392P) operated by Samuel M. Goodwin was involved in an aviation accident near Columbia, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE MISALIGNMENT OF THE NOSE GEAR CENTERING TRACK AND ROLLER ASSEMBLIES WHICH PRECLUDED LANDING GEAR EXTENSION. 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

After multiple attempts to lower the landing gear failed, the pilot performed a gear-up landing. Examination revealed the nose gear roller aligner assembly was displaced outside the centering track, causing the gear to retract at an angle. No material failure or excessive wear was found.

Incident Overview

During a flight, the pilot encountered difficulty lowering the landing gear after several attempts. In response, the pilot chose to execute a gear-up landing. Post-incident examination focused on the nose gear retraction and extension system.

Examination Findings

Inspection of the nose gear retraction and extension system did not reveal any material failure. The nose gear assembly was examined, and it was found that the roller aligner assembly was displaced outside of the centering track. This displacement caused the nose gear to retract into the wheel well at an angle.

Further inspection of the nose gear assembly components showed no evidence of excessive wear or fractures. All components appeared within normal operational limits, with no signs of mechanical degradation that could explain the misalignment.

Conclusion

The investigation determined that the gear-up landing was necessitated by the inability to lower the landing gear. The primary finding was the displaced roller aligner assembly, which prevented proper gear extension. No other mechanical deficiencies were identified in the system.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03617. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.