Landing gear retraction during takeoff at Oxford Airport

Casualties unknown • Oxford Airport, GB

A Glasair IIS RG experienced an unintended landing gear retraction during its takeoff roll at Oxford Airport, resulting in minor damage to the aircraft.

What happened

On 15 November 1998, a Glasair IIS RG, registration G-KSIR, was performing a private flight from Oxford Airport. During the takeoff sequence, as the aircraft reached a speed of approximately 60 knots, the landing gear unexpectedly retracted. This caused the aircraft to settle onto the runway surface. The incident resulted in minor damage to the exhaust pipe and the ADF aerial.

The investigation

Following the occurrence, the AAIB examined the circumstances surrounding the gear retraction. The investigation focused on the configuration of the landing gear lever at the time of the takeoff roll. The pilot reported that the takeoff roll had been initiated with the landing gear lever already set to the 'UP' position.

Probable cause

The landing gear retracted during the takeoff roll because the pilot had selected the gear lever to the 'UP' position prior to the completion of the takeoff sequence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-11-15 GLASAIR IIS RG accident near Oxford Airport, GB?

A Glasair IIS RG experienced an unintended landing gear retraction during its takeoff roll at Oxford Airport, resulting in minor damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-11-15 involved a GLASAIR IIS RG, registration G-KSIR, at Oxford Airport, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The landing gear retracted during the takeoff roll because the pilot had selected the gear lever to the 'UP' position prior to the completion of the takeoff sequence.

Loading the flight search…