Casualties unknown

1983-04-16: Beech 76 (N3711N) — Pensacola, FL

Pensacola, FL, US

On April 16, 1983, a Beech 76 (registration N3711N) was involved in an aviation accident near Pensacola, FL. 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

A pilot performed a gear-up landing after the pilot's door opened during takeoff. Despite a reported gear warning horn failure, investigation found the system normal. The aircraft handles well with the door open per the manufacturer.

Incident Overview

A pilot landed an aircraft with the landing gear retracted after experiencing a door opening during the takeoff phase. According to the pilot, at approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL), after the landing gear had been retracted, the pilot's door came open. The pilot reported that the aircraft became erratic due to the door banging against his left arm and side.

Pilot Actions

In response to the door opening, the pilot elected to land on the remaining runway. During the landing, the pilot failed to extend the landing gear, resulting in a gear-up landing. The pilot stated that the gear warning horn did not operate during the approach.

Investigation Findings

An investigation into the incident revealed that the gear warning horn and the landing gear system were operating normally. Additionally, the aircraft manufacturer indicated that this particular aircraft handles quite well with the door open in flight.

Conclusion

The incident highlights the pilot's decision to land gear-up following a door opening event. The reported gear warning horn malfunction was not substantiated by the investigation, which confirmed the system's normal operation.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42766. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.