Casualties unknown

2002-11-06: Piper PA-28RT (N2904C) — Grand Junction, CO

Grand Junction, CO, US

On November 6, 2002, a Piper PA-28RT (registration N2904C) was involved in an aviation accident near Grand Junction, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the collapse of the left main landing gear during landing roll resulting in loss of control/ground loop/swerve and subsequent impact with a sign. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane experienced a total electrical failure due to alternator malfunction. The pilot coordinated landing via cell phone, manually extended the gear, but the left main gear collapsed during rollout, causing a veer-off and collision with a taxiway sign.

Event Details

During the return flight, approximately 35 miles from the destination airport, the airplane's alternator ceased functioning, resulting in a complete loss of electrical power. The pilot made several attempts to restore power, all of which were unsuccessful.

Emergency Procedures

Using a personal cell phone, the pilot contacted the airport's control tower and received clearance to land. Following the emergency checklist, the pilot manually extended the landing gear to prepare for touchdown.

Landing and Outcome

The pilot conducted a landing on the runway. However, during the landing roll, the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane subsequently veered off the runway and struck a taxiway sign. The collision caused substantial damage to the left wing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021120X05490. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.