No fatalities

1978-10-11: Beechcraft G18S (N11Z) — Wyman Pilot Services — Cleveland-Hopkins, United States of America

Cleveland-Hopkins, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 11, 1978, a Beechcraft G18S (registration N11Z) operated by Wyman Pilot Services was involved in an aviation accident near Cleveland-Hopkins, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Hard and wheels-up landing following an improper level off. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781226054Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft made a hard belly landing after the pilot failed to extend the landing gear. During a subsequent go-around, improperly secured cargo shifted, causing the airplane to stall and crash in flames. The pilot was seriously injured.

Incident Summary

The pilot landed the aircraft without extending the landing gear, resulting in a hard belly landing. Upon touchdown, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver. As the aircraft began to climb, the cargo, which had not been properly secured, shifted. This caused the airplane to stall, and it crashed into the ground, bursting into flames.

Damage and Injuries

The aircraft was damaged beyond repair. The pilot, the sole occupant, sustained serious injuries.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a hard and wheels-up landing following an improper level off. Contributing factors reported included inadequate preflight preparation, the cargo shifting because it was improperly secured, the absence of a cargo net or rope in the cabin, and the pilot's first flight in this aircraft model.