Propeller strike during landing attempt in twin-engine aircraft

Casualties unknown • Pampa, TX, US

A commercial pilot experienced a propeller strike and runway excursion while attempting a go-around following a landing gear warning.

What happened

During the landing flare of a twin-engine airplane, the commercial pilot heard the landing gear warning horn. In response, the pilot added engine power to initiate a go-around procedure while simultaneously extending the landing gear. During this maneuver, the aircraft's propellers struck the runway surface. The aircraft then skidded approximately 650 feet along the runway before coming to a complete stop. The pilot was not injured and exited the aircraft through the left cabin door.

The investigation

Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the throttles were in the full forward position and the landing gear selector handle was set to the down position. Investigators found that the inboard main gear doors were in the retracted position, which indicated that the gear sequencing process had not yet started at the time the airplane touched down on the runway.

Findings

An investigation into operational procedures noted that company policy required the pilot to extend the landing gear prior to descending below 1,000 feet above ground level during an approach.

Probable cause

The pilot initiated a go-around by increasing power while the landing gear was still in the process of being extended, resulting in the propellers striking the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2007-09-28 Piper PA-31-350 accident near Pampa, TX?

A commercial pilot experienced a propeller strike and runway excursion while attempting a go-around following a landing gear warning.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2007-09-28 involved a Piper PA-31-350, registration N45014, operated by Ameriflight Inc, at Pampa, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot initiated a go-around by increasing power while the landing gear was still in the process of being extended, resulting in the propellers striking the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20071126X01837. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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