What happened
On May 30, 2017, a private Mooney M20J, registered F-GBML, was conducting a local flight near Rochefort, France. The flight, which included the pilot and one passenger, was originally intended as a navigation training exercise toward Luçon and back. During the return portion of the flight, the pilot and passenger engaged in various maneuverability exercises at a safe altitude.
During the final approach to Rochefort, the pilot performed a simulated landing sequence that included retracting and extending the landing gear. Following this maneuver, the pilot and passenger engaged in a discussion regarding the aircraft's parameters. During this period, the pilot failed to perform the necessary pre-landing checklist. Consequently, the aircraft touched down with the landing gear retracted. The aircraft was heavily damaged as it landed on its belly and slid approximately 100 meters along the runway before coming to a stop.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the gear-up landing. Investigators reviewed the pilot's testimony and flight logs. The pilot, who held a valid private pilot license and had accumulated over 2,000 total flight hours, including 35 hours on this specific type, provided details regarding the flight's progression. The investigation also examined the cockpit environment, specifically whether audible warnings were present or noticed during the approach.
Findings
- The pilot failed to complete the landing checklist prior to touchdown.
- A distraction occurred during the final approach due to a conversation between the pilot and the passenger regarding aircraft parameters.
- The landing gear was not extended for the actual landing.
- Neither the pilot nor the passenger reported hearing the 'gear not down' warning alarm during the approach.