Incident Overview
A local training sortie at Castle Air Force Base (AFB) resulted in a landing gear failure following touchdown. The aircraft was performing a touch and go manoeuvre as part of the training session.
Event Sequence
After the aircraft's wheels contacted the runway, the undercarriage failed to remain extended. The airplane subsequently slid along the runway surface before coming to rest. The crew reported no injuries. However, the aircraft sustained significant damage that rendered it beyond economical repair.
Probable Cause
The official investigation identified the probable cause as a failure of the landing gear lever latch after landing. This failure allowed the landing gear to retract, causing the aircraft to sink onto the runway.