18 Mar 2012: MOONEY M20M — Donald Trizzino

18 Mar 2012: MOONEY M20M — Donald Trizzino

No fatalities • Clearwater, FL, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to extend the landing gear before landing due to his distraction regarding another airplane in the traffic pattern.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

According to the pilot, after entering the traffic pattern for landing, he noted there were two other airplanes in the traffic pattern. As he announced his position on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, he heard another pilot also announce his position at the same location. The accident pilot visually obtained the other airplane, whose pilot reported he would proceed behind the accident airplane to the runway. The accident pilot stated he became pre-occupied with locating the other airplane during the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, and forgot to lower the landing gear. During touchdown, the propeller struck the runway and the airplane skid to a stop resulting substantial damage to the underside of the fuselage. The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • cause Not used/operated
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 080/06kt, vis 10sm

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