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Landing Gear Collapse During Landing in Crosswind Conditions (N18961)

Avalon, CA, US

On July 26, 1998, a Beech C23 (registration N18961) was involved in an aviation accident near Avalon, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the pilot to maintain an adequate airspeed during the landing, which resulted in a stall/mush and hard landing. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a landing gear collapse after the nose dropped on final approach for runway 22 in gusty crosswinds. The aircraft veered off the runway; no mechanical malfunction was reported.

Incident Overview

The pilot was on final approach for runway 22 with flaps set to 15 degrees and an airspeed of 70-75 knots. The intended landing point was approximately 200 feet beyond the runway numbers.

Sequence of Events

As the aircraft approached the runway numbers, the nose suddenly stopped and began to drop. Before the pilot could apply power, the aircraft contacted the runway. Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear and nose wheel collapsed, causing the aircraft to veer off to the left side of the runway.

Environmental Conditions

The wind was from 270 degrees at 12-15 knots, creating a crosswind component for the approach and landing.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction with the aircraft prior to the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jul 1998 Beech C23 accident near Avalon, CA?

A pilot experienced a landing gear collapse after the nose dropped on final approach for runway 22 in gusty crosswinds. The aircraft veered off the runway; no mechanical malfunction was reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Jul 1998 Beech C23 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jul 1998 involved a Beech C23, registration N18961, at Avalon, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the pilot to maintain an adequate airspeed during the landing, which resulted in a stall/mush and hard landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10645. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.