No fatalities

Pilot Reports Gear-Up Landing After Delayed Checklist (N756KQ)

Vicksburg, MS, US

On November 18, 2004, a Cessna TR182 (registration N756KQ) operated by Robert C. Hamilton was involved in an aviation accident near Vicksburg, MS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to extend the landing gear which resulted in a wheels up landing. A contributing factor is the pilot's failure to complete the checklist. 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

A pilot performing a visual approach delayed lowering the landing gear due to approaching weather, then landed gear-up after a rushed prelanding check and a warning horn during flare.

Flight and Approach

The pilot reported that the flight proceeded to the destination airport. Upon nearing the airport, he canceled his IFR clearance and continued visually. He began a prelanding check in anticipation of landing, but due to weather approaching the airport, he decided to delay lowering the landing gear. He then entered a left traffic pattern for runway 19, turning crosswind, downwind, base, and final.

Prelanding Check and Landing

While on final approach, the pilot performed a checklist very quickly. He stated that he did not recognize that the "wrong" landing gear lights were illuminated. During the flare for landing, he reduced power and heard the landing gear warning horn. He decided he was committed to landing and landed with the gear retracted (gear-up landing).

Post-Landing Actions

After stopping, the pilot secured the airplane and exited through the pilot's door.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Nov 2004 Cessna TR182 accident near Vicksburg, MS?

A pilot performing a visual approach delayed lowering the landing gear due to approaching weather, then landed gear-up after a rushed prelanding check and a warning horn during flare.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Nov 2004 Cessna TR182 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Nov 2004 involved a Cessna TR182, registration N756KQ, operated by Robert C. Hamilton, at Vicksburg, MS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to extend the landing gear which resulted in a wheels up landing. A contributing factor is the pilot's failure to complete the checklist.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050202X00127. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.