Retractable Landing Gear Collapse During Landing on Turf Runway

Accident Overview

The pilot of a retractable landing gear-equipped airplane reported that he set up for an extended final approach to a sandy turf runway. After clearing trees, he "dropped down to land." The main landing gear touched down first, followed by the nose landing gear. Both the main and nose landing gear collapsed upon contact with the runway. The airplane slid approximately 300 feet before coming to a stop on the right side of the runway.

Damage Assessment

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the lower fuselage. Photographs provided by the operator showed vertical deformation of both wings at the main landing gear mount location.

Witness and Pilot Statements

A Federal Aviation Administration Aviation Safety Inspector examined the airplane at the accident site. According to the inspector, witnesses stated that the pilot landed hard on the sandy turf surface. However, the pilot stated that he did not land hard. The pilot did state that he "really had to bring it in steep over the trees" to get the airplane on the runway.