Belly Landing Occurs Due to Unextended Landing Gear

Casualties unknown • Miami, FL, US

A pilot performed a belly landing at their destination airport after failing to extend the landing gear prior to touchdown.

What happened

The flight proceeded normally until the aircraft reached its destination airport. During the descent, the pilot noted that the airspeed was higher than normal; however, the approach was continued toward the runway. Upon touchdown, the aircraft made contact with the ground on its belly rather than its wheels.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the configuration of the landing gear and the pilot's use of procedures during the approach. The pilot indicated that the landing gear was not switched to the down position. While a checklist was present in front of the pilot during the flight, the pilot stated he must have missed the relevant item regarding gear extension. There was no indication provided by the pilot as to whether a formal checklist was utilized at any point during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to extend the landing gear prior to touchdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-08-08 Mitsubishi MU-2 accident near Miami, FL?

A pilot performed a belly landing at their destination airport after failing to extend the landing gear prior to touchdown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-08-08 involved a Mitsubishi MU-2, registration N110GC, at Miami, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to extend the landing gear prior to touchdown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10919. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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