What happened
On June 17, 2019, at approximately 19:25 LMT, a Piper PA 34 Seneca V, registration SP-TUC, was performing a training flight at Rzeszów Airport (EPRJ). The flight, operated by the Rzeszów University of Technology Flight Training Center, involved an instructor and a student pilot. The mission involved simulating engine failure procedures during instrument approaches.
During the landing phase from the left circuit to runway 26L, the student pilot executed the landing checklist, extending the flaps to 25° and then 40°. However, the aircraft landed without the landing gear being extended. The instructor only became aware of the gear configuration after the propeller blades made contact with the runway surface. There were no injuries to the crew, who exited the aircraft unaided. The landing caused damage to the propeller blades and the underside of the fuselage.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined the cockpit environment and aircraft systems. The investigation established that the aircraft was airworthy and all crew members held valid licenses and medical certificates.
Technical analysis revealed that the aircraft's landing gear and warning systems were functioning correctly. The investigation noted that the instructor did not hear the audible gear warning or see the visual landing gear indicators. It was determined that the audible warning may have been suppressed because the approach was conducted at higher engine RPMs, which maintained a charging pressure above 15 psi, a condition that disables the audio alert. Additionally, the student pilot's hand position on the engine controls likely obstructed the instructor's view of the gear lever and the visual indicator lights.
Findings
- The student pilot failed to complete the landing checklist fully.
- The instructor failed to monitor the student pilot's execution of landing procedures.
- The crew failed to verify the aircraft's configuration for landing.
- The approach was likely conducted at high engine RPMs, which prevented the audible warning from activating.
- The student pilot's hand placement on the throttles obscured the gear indicator lights and the gear lever from the instructor's line of sight.