On July 27, 1986, a Cessna T337H (registration N1343L) was involved in an aviation accident near Marathon, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to extend the landing gear prior to landing, due to intoxication. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot arrived for a flight appearing intoxicated and uncoordinated. Upon landing in Marathon, Florida, he failed to extend the landing gear, resulting in a belly landing.
What happened
Witnesses reported that the pilot arrived for the flight carrying a glass from a local bar and appeared uncoordinated and intoxicated. After much difficulty taxiing to the runway, he finally took off. On arrival at Marathon, FL, the pilot failed to extend the landing gear and landed with the gear retracted. After the accident, he failed a nystagmus gaze test that was administered by local sheriff personnel.
The investigation
Following the incident, local sheriff personnel administered a nystagmus gaze test to the pilot. He failed this test, which is often used to assess impairment.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to extend the landing gear prior to landing, due to intoxication.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 Jul 1986 Cessna T337H accident near Marathon, FL?
A pilot arrived for a flight appearing intoxicated and uncoordinated. Upon landing in Marathon, Florida, he failed to extend the landing gear, resulting in a belly landing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Jul 1986 involved a Cessna T337H, registration N1343L, at Marathon, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to extend the landing gear prior to landing, due to intoxication.
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