Landing gear collapse following electrical system malfunction

Casualties unknown • Truckee, CA, US

A pilot experienced an electrical failure and a burning smell during flight, leading to a landing gear collapse and runway excursion upon touchdown.

What happened

The flight began after the aircraft's battery had been depleted because a courtesy light was left on. The pilot utilized external power to start the engine, and during the engine run-up, the electrical system indicated that the alternator was charging the battery. The pilot proceeded with the departure while the battery was still in the process of charging.

Approximately 200 feet above the ground, the pilot attempted to retract the landing gear. During this operation, the electrical radio equipment began flashing on and off. After recycling the master switch, the pilot detected a burning smell. The pilot decided to continue the approximately one-hour flight to the destination without the use of electrical power.

While en route, the aircraft encountered turbulence. In response, the pilot slowed the airplane and manually lowered the landing gear. Upon turning on the master switch for the landing phase, the burning smell returned. The pilot landed the aircraft without electrical power; however, due to the lack of power, the pilot was unable to verify if the landing gear was in a safe configuration. During touchdown, the right main landing gear collapsed, causing the airplane to veer off the right side of the runway. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

The depletion of battery power due to an illuminated courtesy light and the subsequent electrical malfunction during landing gear retraction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-08-12 Piper PA-32R-301T accident near Truckee, CA?

A pilot experienced an electrical failure and a burning smell during flight, leading to a landing gear collapse and runway excursion upon touchdown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-08-12 involved a Piper PA-32R-301T, registration N8386H, operated by D'ascoli, Vincent P, at Truckee, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The depletion of battery power due to an illuminated courtesy light and the subsequent electrical malfunction during landing gear retraction.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04290. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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