What happened
The aircraft was conducting an instrument approach when it touched down on the runway without the landing gear extended. Although the pilot stated that he had lowered the gear before touchdown, both propellers struck the runway surface. Following the impact, the pilot attempted to execute a go-around, but the aircraft began to veer to the left. He reduced power, and the aircraft made contact with the dirt off the left side of the runway.
The pilot and two passengers were not injured. Two other passengers received minor injuries.
The investigation
A post-crash examination of the aircraft confirmed that the landing gear mechanism, along with the associated lights and warning horn, functioned properly. However, the gear was found to be fully retracted at the moment of touchdown. No mechanical malfunction could be identified as the cause of the gear failure.
Findings
The investigation revealed a significant administrative issue regarding the pilot's qualifications. While he held a valid medical certificate, his pilot certificate only included Commercial privileges for single-engine land (ASEL) and Private privileges for multi-engine land (AMEL). He was not authorized to operate as Pilot in Command in multi-engine aircraft under 14 CFR Part 135. Despite this limitation, the FAA had allowed him to receive several checkrides in multi-engine aircraft, effectively permitting him to operate without the proper certification being discovered.