Accident Overview
On 22 August 2017 at 1528 UTC, a Diamond DA42 Twin Star (registration G-OCCX) returned to Coventry Airport after conducting upper air exercises as part of the first sortie of a Multi-Engine Piston Flight Instructor’s course. The pilot under training was flying the aircraft and was being introduced to asymmetric handling. During this phase, one engine was operated at 10% of engine load to give zero thrust, and the landing gear warning horn sounded continuously.
Approach and Landing
The pilot under training joined right base for a flapless landing on Runway 05 with the engine still set at zero thrust. The commander believed he had verified that the landing gear was extended, but the aircraft subsequently landed with the gear retracted. The landing resulted in damage to both propellers and engines, the underside of the fuselage, antennas, and entry steps. Both crew members were uninjured, and no passengers were on board.
Commander's Observations
The commander noted that the landing gear warning horn had been operating for approximately 10 minutes prior to the landing. He stated that having grown accustomed to the sound, this may have led to his failure to recognise that the landing gear was not extended.
Aircraft and Crew Details
The aircraft, a 2006 Diamond DA42 Twin Star, was powered by two Thielert TAE 125-02-99 piston engines. The commander, aged 74, held an Airline Transport Pilot’s Licence and had 15,100 total flying hours, including 25 hours on type. The crew consisted of two persons, with no passengers. The flight was a training sortie.