Casualties unknown

Gusty Wind Distraction Leads to Gear-Upon-Landing Incident (N18YV)

Fort Myers, FL, US

On January 3, 1993, a Beech 1900D (registration N18YV) operated by Mesa Airlines, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Myers, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND TO FOLLOW THE CHECKLIST AND COMPLACENCY OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND FOR FAILURE TO EXTEND THE LANDING GEAR BEFORE LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 16 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a visual approach with the first officer flying, the crew's attention was diverted by gusty winds. A scraping sound alerted them to the landing gear being not extended; the captain took control and landed uneventfully.

Incident Overview

A two-pilot crew experienced an incident during a visual approach when the landing gear was not extended prior to touchdown. According to the captain, the first officer was flying the aircraft at the time. The crew's attention was diverted to the gusty wind conditions prevailing during the approach.

Sequence of Events

While on final approach, the crew heard a scraping sound, which prompted them to realize that the landing gear had not been deployed. In response, the captain assumed control of the aircraft and executed an uneventful landing. No further details regarding the approach phase or the exact point at which the gear was extended were provided.

Post-Inspection

Following the incident, the landing gear system was inspected. The examination revealed no evidence of failure or malfunction, indicating that the system had been serviceable and that the gear non-extension was due to human oversight rather than a technical defect.

Conclusion

The incident highlights a lapse in cockpit discipline during a period of heightened workload due to gusty winds. Both pilots were able to recover the situation without damage or further consequences.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11733. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.