What happened
During an approach to Walker's Cay Airfield, a twin engine aircraft was configured incorrectly for landing. This error resulted in the aircraft touching down significantly further down the runway than intended. Upon realizing the landing was unsafe, the pilot attempted to execute a go-around maneuver.
During this transition, the pilot requested that a passenger, who was qualified to fly but not operating the controls, retract the flaps. Instead of adjusting the flaps, the passenger inadvertently raised the landing gear. This error caused the aircraft to lose sufficient lift and settle onto its belly, resulting in both propellers making contact with the runway surface.
Following the impact, a fire broke out on the aircraft. The pilot decided to proceed with the climb, but the aircraft was unable to maintain altitude and eventually ditched in the water a short distance from the shore. The accident resulted in two serious injuries and the total destruction of the aircraft.
Findings
- The initial approach was performed with an incorrect configuration.
- The accidental retraction of the landing gear instead of the flaps prevented the aircraft from maintaining flight during the go-around attempt.