What happened
On December 21, 2023, a Piper Aircraft, Inc. PA-28R-201, registration SP-KPA, was performing a series of training circuits at Mielec Airport (EPML). During the flight, which was operated by ATO Royal Star, the crew—consisting of a flight instructor and a student pilot—completed a full landing without having extended the landing gear. The impact resulted in damage to the propeller, the engine, and the lower fuselage skin. There were no injuries to the crew, and both occupants were able to exit the aircraft unaided.
The investigation
The PKBWL reviewed the documentation provided by the investigating entity and determined that the findings were sufficient to conclude the investigation. The inquiry focused on the sequence of events during the approach and landing phase, as well as the crew's adherence to standard operating procedures.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was that the crew failed to execute the landing checklist and did not perform the procedure to extend the landing gear.
- Contributing factors included a lack of proper attention distribution between both pilots during the approach and touchdown.
- The instructor pilot experienced a loss of vigilance and failed to intervene or react to the student pilot's incorrect actions.
Safety action
- The commission accepted a preventive measure to develop and publish a bulletin outlining procedures for conducting safe flight operations at ATO Royal Star specifically for aircraft equipped with retractable landing gear.