What happened
On March 1, 2017, at approximately 10:15 EST, a Cessna 402C, registered as N402ZK, was involved in a gear-up landing at Exuma International Airport in the Bahamas. While performing the approach, the aircraft experienced a total loss of electrical power. This electrical failure was immediately followed by a malfunction within the hydraulic system. Due to these simultaneous system failures, the pilot was unable to successfully deploy the landing gear before touchdown.
The investigation
The AAID conducted a short investigation into the incident, which is now classified as completed. The investigation focused on the sequence of mechanical failures reported by the pilot. The inquiry established that the inability to extend the landing gear was a direct consequence of the preceding electrical and hydraulic malfunctions. While the aircraft sustained damage during the landing, the specific extent of the structural or mechanical impact was not determined.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a gear-up landing resulting from the pilot's inability to extend the landing gear.
- A complete electrical failure occurred prior to the landing attempt.
- A subsequent malfunction in the hydraulic system prevented the gear from being deployed.
- There were no injuries reported as a result of the occurrence.