On July 8, 1987, a Piper PA-31T2 (registration N38WA) operated by Carrao Construction Co. was involved in an aviation accident near Novato, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight, the pilot extended landing gear and flaps but collided with the runway with gear retracted. A witness observed the landing with gear retracted, but the gear was found extended after retrieval.
Incident Overview
At the end of a cross-country flight, the pilot reported extending the landing gear approximately 5 miles from the airport and lowering partial flaps. Approximately 2 miles from the airport, the pilot made shallow S-turns for spacing and extended the remaining flaps. The pilot does not remember if there were three green indicators.
Approach and Collision
The remainder of the approach involved the pilot making constant power adjustments to compensate for high wind conditions. The aircraft collided with the runway with the landing gear retracted.
Witness and Recovery
A witness in the area observed the aircraft land with the gear retracted. When the aircraft was retrieved off the runway, the landing gear was extended with the three green indicators showing down and locked.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 8 Jul 1987 Piper PA-31T2 accident near Novato, CA?
During a cross-country flight, the pilot extended landing gear and flaps but collided with the runway with gear retracted. A witness observed the landing with gear retracted, but the gear was found extended after retrieval.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Jul 1987 involved a Piper PA-31T2, registration N38WA, operated by Carrao Construction Co., at Novato, CA.
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