On October 11, 1991, a Beech F33A (registration N37MC) operated by Hill, Robert J. was involved in an aviation accident near Franklin, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO LOWER THE LANDING GEAR RESULTING IN A GEAR UP CONTACT WITH THE RUNWAY, AND THE EVENTUAL LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During flare, propeller contacted runway; pilot performed go-around after discovering landing gear not extended. Unable to climb due to terrain, he executed a 180-degree turn and landed in a plowed field, crossing a creek and hitting the bank.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred during the flare phase of landing when the propeller blades contacted the runway surface. The pilot then realized that the landing gear had not been extended prior to the approach. He initiated a go-around while lowering the landing gear; flaps remained at the full-down position. Because rising terrain prevented a straight-ahead climb, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn back toward the airport. Unable to maintain altitude, he subsequently landed the airplane in a nearby plowed field. During the landing roll, the airplane crossed a creek bed and collided with the west bank of the creek.
Post-Accident Examination
The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane. Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the landing gear warning circuit breaker was tripped. Inspection of the runway disclosed numerous propeller slash marks. The propeller blade tips were found to be scored and curled.