Incident Overview
During a crosswind approach, the pilot executed a gradual climb to reduce airspeed sufficiently to lower the landing gear. After hitting the gear switch under the impression that it had been engaged, the pilot continued the pattern. He turned onto the downwind leg and waited for other traffic to clear before turning base and final. The pilot reported that he did not realize a problem existed until the airplane struck the runway surface.
The airplane touched down with the landing gear fully retracted, resulting in damage to the bottom fuselage, flaps, and propeller. A post-incident examination of the aircraft revealed no anomalies in the landing gear system or any other mechanical components.
Sequence of Events
- The pilot initiated a gradual climb during the crosswind approach to slow the airplane enough for gear extension.
- The pilot activated the gear switch, believing the gear had been lowered and locked.
- After ensuring other traffic was clear on downwind, the pilot turned base and then final approach.
- The pilot became aware of the problem only upon impact with the runway.
The airplane skidded along the runway on its belly before coming to a stop. Emergency services responded, but no injuries were reported. The aircraft sustained substantial damage requiring repair.
Investigation Findings
The investigation focused on the pilot's actions and the aircraft's mechanical condition. The landing gear system was tested and found to be fully functional. No evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction was discovered. The pilot's recollection indicated that he believed he had completed the gear extension procedure correctly, but the gear remained retracted throughout the landing.
The pilot's decision to focus on traffic separation after the gear switch activation may have contributed to his failure to confirm the gear's status before touchdown. However, the official report does not assign a probable cause beyond the pilot's actions.
Probable Cause: Not explicitly stated by the source.