On October 7, 1990, a Beech B55B (registration N56AF) was involved in an aviation accident near Eielson Afb, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's inadvertent retraction of the landing gear during the touch-and-go maneuver. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A dual student pilot practicing touch-and-go landings accidentally retracted the landing gear after applying power, causing the aircraft to slide on its belly.
What happened
The dual student and instructor pilots were conducting practice sessions for touch-and-go landings. During one specific maneuver, the student pilot completed the landing phase and applied power for the climb-out. Immediately following this action, the student selected the landing gear lever to the 'up' position.
The instructor observed the error and quickly attempted to correct it by placing the landing gear lever back in the down position. Despite this rapid intervention, the landing gear continued to retract fully before the aircraft could be stopped safely. The airplane subsequently slid to a stop on its belly.
Probable cause
The student pilot's inadvertent retraction of the landing gear during the touch-and-go maneuver.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Oct 1990 Beech B55B accident near Eielson Afb, AK?
A dual student pilot practicing touch-and-go landings accidentally retracted the landing gear after applying power, causing the aircraft to slide on its belly.
Were there any fatalities in the 7 Oct 1990 Beech B55B accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Oct 1990 involved a Beech B55B, registration N56AF, at Eielson Afb, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's inadvertent retraction of the landing gear during the touch-and-go maneuver.
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