2017 Mooney M20J accident at Rochefort (F-GBML)

Overview and flight details On 30 May 2017, a privately operated Mooney M20J, registration F-GBML, was involved in an accident at Rochefort (17) in France. The flight was a local general-aviation convenience flight. The pilot and one passenger were on board. The aircraft sustained heavy damage. ## Sequence of events According to the pilot, the flight began with a takeoff for a navigation training exercise toward Luçon (85) and a return to Rochefort. The passenger was a pilot-instructor but had no duty role on board. During the final approach, after a simulated landing that included a gear extension and retraction sequence, the pilot said he discussed aircraft parameters with the passenger and forgot to complete the pre-landing checklist. Neither the pilot nor the passenger reported hearing the “gear not down” warning. The aircraft landed on its belly and slid for about 100 meters before coming to rest on the runway. ## Pilot and weather information The pilot held a valid private pilot license (PPL/A since 2009, originally issued in September 1965) and had more than 2,000 total flight hours, including 35 hours on type and 30 hours in the preceding 90 days in this aircraft. The pilot recorded the weather as CAVOK, wind 300° at 5 kt, and temperature 20 °C. ## Investigation note The BEA stated that its investigations aim solely to improve aviation safety and are not intended to assign fault or responsibility. The information above is primarily based on the pilot’s testimony and was not independently validated by the BEA.