What happened
The pilot performed a prelanding checklist during the final approach but failed to lower the aircraft's landing gear. As the aircraft neared touchdown, external advice indicated that the gear remained retracted. Despite this warning, the pilot continued the descent and landing sequence. The aircraft slid along the runway surface until it came to a complete stop.
The investigation
Post-incident inquiries revealed discrepancies regarding the landing gear warning system. The pilot reported that the gear warning horn was inoperative during the approach. However, FAA personnel subsequently tested the system and determined that the warning horn operated satisfactorily at the time of inspection.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the incident was the failure to lower the landing gear during the final approach phase. Although a warning system was present, its effectiveness was compromised by the pilot's perception of inoperability or actual malfunction during the critical moment.