What happened
On 24 July 2001, a YAK 52 (registration LY-AHF) operated by Aerial Advertising Ltd was performing a flight from Abbeyshrule to Weston Aerodrome. During the approach to Runway 2 and 25, the pilot performed landing checks and believed the undercarriage had been successfully deployed, even noting the presence of "three greens" to the passenger.
Upon touchdown, the aircraft's landing gear was actually in the retracted position. The impact caused the propeller blades to shatter against the runway surface. The aircraft traveled approximately 400 meters along the runway before veering onto the grass. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the propeller was destroyed and the engine required further inspection.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the undercarriage and the pilot's actions. Post-incident checks on the aircraft revealed that the extension and retraction mechanisms were fully functional and no mechanical defects were found.
Investigators examined the cockpit controls and found that the landing gear lever on this model requires a specific sequence: the pilot must push the lever in and move it through a center position to reach the down position. It was determined that the pilot had moved the lever to the center position rather than the full down position. Additionally, the investigation looked into the cockpit layout, noting that the flap indicator lights are positioned very close to the undercarriage lever, which could lead to confusion during critical flight phases.
Findings
- The pilot failed to complete the necessary movement of the landing gear lever to ensure the wheels were locked down.
- The landing gear was in the retracted position at the moment of touchdown.
- The proximity of the flap indicators to the undercarriage lever may contribute to pilot confusion during landing checks.
- The aircraft lacked an automated audible warning device for a "wheels-up" configuration.
Safety action
- Manufacturers should consider relocating flap indicator lights away from the undercarriage lever to prevent confusion.
- The installation of a "Wheels-Up" warning device should be considered for this aircraft type.
- It is recommended that pilots transitioning to this type receive a short introductory course to familiarize themselves with its specific control sequences.