Event Summary
On 14 March 2025 at 1734 UTC, a Piper PA-24 Comanche, registration D-EKKE, was on approach to Runway 05 at Solent Airport, Hampshire, following a short local flight. When the pilot selected the landing gear down, the gear position indicator light did not illuminate. After several unsuccessful attempts to lower the gear normally, the pilot employed the emergency extension procedure. The control tower visually confirmed that the landing gear appeared to be down. The pilot stated that he heard the gear locking into place and proceeded with a normal landing. The aircraft touched down without issue, but during the latter part of the landing roll, the landing gear slowly collapsed. The aircraft slid on its underside for approximately 100 metres before coming to a stop. The pilot and the sole passenger exited the aircraft unaided and sustained no injuries.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a Piper PA-24 Comanche, manufactured in 1958 (serial number 24-469), powered by a single Lycoming IO-540 piston engine. The flight was conducted under a Private Pilot's Licence. The commander, aged 56, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had a total flying experience of 2,137 hours, including 65 hours on type. In the previous 90 days he had flown 8 hours, and in the last 28 days, 3 hours.
Damage
The accident resulted in a collapsed undercarriage, damage to the underside of the fuselage, and damage to the propeller. No injuries were reported among the two occupants.
Investigation
The incident is under investigation by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), reference AAIB-30731.