Nose gear retraction error leads to landing accident at Wick Airport

Casualties unknown • Wick Airport, Highland, GB

A Cozy Mk IV aircraft sustained minor damage after the pilot failed to extend the nose landing gear during an approach to Wick Airport.

What happened

On 12 July 2008, a Cozy Mk IV, registration 4X-OYG, was conducting a private flight en-route from Israel to the United States for the purpose of attending the Oshkosh rally. During the final sector of the flight, spanning Le Touquet to Wick, the pilot encountered adverse weather conditions.

Upon regaining visual contact with Wick Airport in the Highlands, the pilot proceeded with the landing sequence. However, during the approach, the pilot failed to lower the nose landing gear prior to touchdown. The aircraft subsequently made contact with the runway with the nose gear in the retracted position, resulting in minor damage to the airframe. There were no injuries to the pilot, and no passengers were on board at the time of the incident.

The investigation

The investigation was conducted with information provided by the pilot via an accident report form and telephone communications with the Israeli AAIB. The examination focused on the flight's progression through deteriorating weather and the pilot's actions during the transition to visual flight rules for the landing at Wick.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to extend the nose landing gear before landing the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-07-12 Cozy Mk IV accident near Wick Airport, Highland, GB?

A Cozy Mk IV aircraft sustained minor damage after the pilot failed to extend the nose landing gear during an approach to Wick Airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-07-12 involved a Cozy Mk IV, registration 4X-OYG, at Wick Airport, Highland, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to extend the nose landing gear before landing the aircraft.

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