Casualties unknown

1998-10-14: Beech C-90 (N438SP) — Meridian, MS

Meridian, MS, US

On October 14, 1998, a Beech C-90 (registration N438SP) was involved in an aviation accident near Meridian, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot inadvertently retracted the landing gear instead of the flaps. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

The FAA determined that a pilot inadvertently retracted the landing gear instead of the flaps during a landing, causing the propellers to strike the runway.

Accident Overview

During a landing, the pilot touched down on the main landing gear and engaged reverse thrust. As the nose wheel contacted the runway, the left wing began to dip. The pilot then advanced the power levers, and the propellers struck the runway surface.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that after touchdown, the airplane bounced into the air. He stated that he applied power for a go-around but was unable to complete the maneuver in time.

Witness Observations

Tower personnel observed the landing and informed the FAA that the airplane appeared to land long and at a high speed.

FAA Findings

The Federal Aviation Administration concluded that the pilot inadvertently retracted the landing gear instead of the flaps during the landing sequence.

Mechanical Examination

A post-accident examination of the landing gear by a repair facility found no evidence of any pre-existing mechanical failure or malfunction in the landing gear assembly.

Probable cause

The pilot inadvertently retracted the landing gear instead of the flaps.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11307. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.