Casualties unknown

Landing Gear Retraction During Ground Roll After Go-Around (N9055P)

Atlantic City, NJ, US

On February 23, 2002, a Piper PA-24-260 (registration N9055P) was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic City, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to lower the landing gear prior to landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

A pilot performed a go-around after another airplane entered the runway, retracted flaps and gear, executed a 360-degree turn, and landed. During the ground roll, the landing gear retracted, and the airplane slid about 100 feet.

Flight and Go-Around

The pilot completed the departure, en route, and descent portions of the visual flight rules (VFR) flight without incident. After entering the traffic pattern, the pilot turned final and announced intentions. The pilot then observed an airplane holding short for the same runway and made another announcement. When the pilot was approximately 100 to 150 feet above ground level, the airplane holding short pulled onto the runway. The pilot executed a go-around, retracted the flaps and landing gear, and then performed a left 360-degree turn, placing the airplane back on final.

Landing and Gear Retraction

The pilot recalled the airplane touching down and believes the landing gear retracted during the ground roll. The airplane slid approximately 100 feet before coming to a stop. After the accident, the pilot realized the landing gear switch was in the up position.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the airplane revealed no damage to the landing gear doors or side scuffing on either tire. Additionally, no preimpact failures were identified with the squat switch, the safe gear indication system, or the landing gear horn.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020410X00483. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.