What happened
During a routine local training mission operating out of Suva Airport, a flight crew consisting of one pilot and one instructor experienced a significant incident during the final approach phase. As the aircraft descended toward the runway, the crew neglected to deploy the landing gear. Consequently, the aircraft made contact with the runway surface on its belly.
Following the initial impact, the aircraft slid along the runway for several dozen meters before the motion ceased. Despite the severity of the impact, both pilots were able to evacuate the aircraft without sustaining any injuries. While there were no casualties, the aircraft sustained structural damage that rendered it beyond repair.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the failure to lower the landing gear prior to touchdown.