Incident Overview
Witnesses reported that an airplane began its landing flare with the landing gear fully retracted. As the aircraft descended to approximately 3-4 feet above the runway, the landing gear began to extend. The main landing gear contacted the runway surface while still extending and subsequently collapsed.
Go-Around Attempt
Immediately after the gear collapse, the engine sound increased to a high power level, and the airplane lifted off the runway at a steep climb angle. However, when the aircraft reached an altitude of about 10-12 feet above ground level, the engine sound abruptly ceased, and the airplane dropped back onto the runway, sliding to a stop.
Witness Account
Another witness reported that as the airplane crossed the runway threshold, the pilot was advised via UNICOM to check the landing gear. The witness observed the landing gear beginning to extend shortly after that advisory.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft touched down while the landing gear were still in motion. The gear collapse occurred on initial contact, leading to an aborted landing and attempted go-around. The sudden loss of engine power at low altitude prevented a successful climb-out, resulting in a hard landing and subsequent slide.