Accident Overview
A pilot reported that during a landing approach, air traffic control instructed him to enter a right downwind pattern following a corporate jet that was on final approach. The controller also issued a wake turbulence advisory. The pilot stated that as he observed the jet pass by, he turned to watch it land so that he could plan to land beyond its touchdown point. This action, however, interrupted his completion of the landing checklist. Consequently, he failed to extend the landing gear before touchdown. The airplane subsequently landed with the gear retracted, causing substantial damage to the airframe.
Pilot Account
The pilot explicitly stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The entirety of the event stemmed from his distraction while monitoring the preceding aircraft.
Damage and Injuries
No injuries were reported. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airframe, though specific components were not detailed.
Contributing Factors
As per the pilot's report, the primary cause was his failure to extend the landing gear due to being interrupted from completing the landing checklist while watching the corporate jet land.