Sequence of Events
As the airplane was accelerating down the runway for departure and approaching a rotation speed of around 50 to 60 knots, the nose began to rise. The pilot then retarded the throttles to the idle position after smelling what he believed was a burning electrical odor. The landing gear collapsed and the airplane skidded to a stop.
Examination Findings
An examination performed by a mechanic revealed no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the electrical system or landing gear. There was no evidence of an electrical overheat condition or fire. Upon activation of the system, the landing gear operated as designed in both extension and retraction.
Landing Gear System Description
The landing gear is operated by an electric motor. It was noted that if the landing gear selector handle was in the retracted position during rotation, as the weight came off the wheels, the landing gear system would retract.