What happened
On 14 August 2013, a Gardan GY80-160 Horizon, registration G-ASZS, was conducting a private flight from Wellesbourne Airfield to Leicester Airport. The weather conditions were good with light winds. Upon contacting Leicester Airport, the pilot was informed that Runway 28 was currently in use, which featured a Landing Distance Available (LDA) of 935 m. However, the pilot was subsequently advised that Runway 22 was in use, which offered a significantly shorter LDA of only 490 m.
Due to the reduced runway length, the pilot noted that the landing would be difficult. While focusing heavily on the approach, the pilot failed to complete the necessary downwind checks, specifically neglecting to verify that the flaps and landing gear were extended. The aircraft touched down on Runway 22 with the landing gear and flaps in the up position. The aircraft subsequently slid along the runway and came to a stop in a ploughed field at the end of the airstrip. The pilot sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's systems and the pilot's actions following the accident. It was determined that the landing gear warning horn, which is intended to activate when the gear is retracted and engine RPM drops below 1,700, did not sound. This failure was attributed to a tripped circuit breaker. The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, engine, front cowling, lower wing skins, and the scoops and aerials located under the fuselage, with the engine showing signs of being shock-loaded.
Findings
- The pilot's concentration on the challenging approach led to the omission of critical downwind checklists.
- The landing gear was not extended prior to touchdown.
- The landing gear warning system failed to alert the pilot because of a tripped circuit breaker.