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Wheels-Up Landing After Left Engine Power Loss on Final Approach (N61RG)

Albuquerque, NM, US

On May 9, 2002, a Piper Aerostar 602P (registration N61RG) was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's delayed extension of the main landing gear prior to the landing flare/touchdown, which resulted in a wheels-up landing. A contributing factor was the loss of engine power for an undetermined reason. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach for runway 3, the left engine lost power. The pilot performed a missed approach but struggled with crosswind conditions. The airplane landed wheels-up after the landing gear failed to lock.

Accident Sequence

The airplane was on final approach for runway 3 at an altitude of about 300 to 400 feet above ground level when the left engine lost power. The pilot initiated a missed approach because he could not maintain alignment with the runway due to the loss of engine power and crosswind conditions. As the airplane continued to lose altitude, the pilot feathered the propeller and subsequently retracted the flaps and the landing gear.

Landing

At a low altitude, the pilot delayed the landing gear extension procedure. The landing gear did not lock into place before touchdown on the runway. The airplane landed with the wheels retracted and slid to a stop.

Weather and Engine

Wind conditions were reported as 140 degrees at 13 knots with gusts to 17 knots. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020510X00662. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.