Casualties unknown

Pilot Makes Gear-Up Landing After Forgetting to Lower Gear (N2317V)

Charlevoix, MI, US

On July 25, 1986, a Piper PA-31T1 (registration N2317V) operated by Calco Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Charlevoix, MI. 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

During a VFR landing on runway 26, a pilot landed with the gear retracted after forgetting to lower it, attributing the oversight to distraction by the copilot and a last-minute runway decision.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, during the first approach the airport was not visible at an altitude of 1,300 feet. The pilot then raised the landing gear and flaps, and climbed to 1,800 feet, at which point the airport became visible. The pilot decided to conduct a VFR landing on runway 26.

Sequence of Events

After seeing the airport, the pilot proceeded with the landing. However, having previously raised the landing gear during the missed approach, the pilot forgot to lower it. The aircraft subsequently made a landing with the gear retracted.

Pilot's Account

The pilot attributed the failure to lower the landing gear to being distracted by the copilot, as well as to the last-minute decision to land on runway 26. No other factors were cited.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Jul 1986 Piper PA-31T1 accident near Charlevoix, MI?

During a VFR landing on runway 26, a pilot landed with the gear retracted after forgetting to lower it, attributing the oversight to distraction by the copilot and a last-minute runway decision.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Jul 1986 involved a Piper PA-31T1, registration N2317V, operated by Calco Inc., at Charlevoix, MI.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34133. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.