Landing gear collapse during runway rollout

Casualties unknown • Ft. Lauderdale, FL, US

A private pilot experienced a landing gear collapse while applying brakes during the rollout phase of a flight, resulting in aircraft damage.

What happened

During the landing rollout, the pilot applied braking action, at which point the aircraft began to veer to the left. Despite the pilot's attempts to correct the deviation by applying right rudder, the aircraft continued to veer left. This movement caused the right main landing gear to collapse, resulting in the aircraft spinning approximately 180 degrees before coming to rest on the runway surface.

The pilot reported no injuries following the event. There were several tire marks visible on the runway that ended at the final position of the aircraft.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft revealed that a significant amount of side load had occurred during the incident. This force caused both the left and right main landing gears to collapse toward the left. Additionally, the right wing sustained damage as a result of the landing gear collapse.

Probable cause

The collapse of the landing gear was caused by significant side loading during the aircraft's leftward veer on the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-08-01 Piper PA-32R-301 accident near Ft. Lauderdale, FL?

A private pilot experienced a landing gear collapse while applying brakes during the rollout phase of a flight, resulting in aircraft damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-08-01 involved a Piper PA-32R-301, registration N957T, at Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collapse of the landing gear was caused by significant side loading during the aircraft's leftward veer on the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020808X01325. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…