On November 21, 1969, a Beechcraft 60 Duke (registration N812JR) operated by United States Leasing Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Alief-Andrau Airpark (Houston), United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot unintentionally retracted the landing gear following touchdown, causing the aircraft to slide on its belly and ignite. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft sustained total destruction following a landing gear retraction error during the rollout phase at Houston Airport.
What happened
During an arrival at Houston Airport, an aircraft experienced a critical malfunction immediately following touchdown. As the pilot initiated standard braking procedures, the landing gear was accidentally raised while the plane was still in contact with the runway.
This error caused the aircraft to settle directly onto its undercarriage structure. The resulting friction led the plane to slide for several dozen yards along the pavement. During this sequence, a fire ignited, ultimately resulting in the total loss of the airframe.
Findings
The pilot managed to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.
The aircraft was completely destroyed by the impact and subsequent flames.
The primary factor in the accident was the accidental retraction of the landing gear after the wheels had touched the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot unintentionally retracted the landing gear following touchdown, causing the aircraft to slide on its belly and ignite.