Casualties unknown

1983-04-13: Beech BE-58 (N4657A) — Little Rock, AR

Little Rock, AR, US

On April 13, 1983, a Beech BE-58 (registration N4657A) was involved in an aviation accident near Little Rock, AR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During an instrument approach in low visibility and heavy rain, the pilot became distracted by contacting tower while reaching for the landing gear selector, resulting in a gear-up touchdown.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported that prior to intercepting the glide slope, he placed his hand on the landing gear selector switch. At that moment, he was simultaneously instructed to contact the tower, which he did. As the aircraft approached the runway threshold, the throttles were retarded and the propellers were set to full forward. The pilot stated that he did not recall hearing the landing gear warning horn. The aircraft subsequently touched down on its belly and came to a stop on the runway.

Weather Conditions

Weather at the time of the accident was reported as an overcast ceiling at approximately 800 feet, with visibility of 1 1/4 miles. Heavy rain was present throughout the entire approach.

Investigation

The investigation focused on the pilot's actions and the environmental conditions during the approach. No probable cause was determined from the available information.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42681. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.