What happened
On September 30, 2014, at 11:15 UTC, a Beechcraft 58, registration PR-JGV, was performing a takeoff from Marechal Rondon Airport (SBCY) in Várzea Grande, Mato Grosso, bound for Primavera do Leste. The aircraft was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) with one pilot and three passengers on board.
During the takeoff roll on runway 35, the nose and main landing gear retracted unexpectedly. This caused the fuselage to make contact with the ground, leading the aircraft to veer off the left side of the runway. During the excursion, the aircraft collided with the Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) system, causing damage to the equipment. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, though all four occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators reviewed airport surveillance footage, which captured the exact moment the landing gear retracted during the takeoff roll. The investigation focused on the electromechanical landing gear system, which utilizes an electric motor and a mechanical actuator to extend and retract the gear.
While the pilot stated that the landing gear lever was not moved intentionally or inadvertently, investigators found that the mechanical actuator was in the retracted position, nearly completing its cycle. Although the aircraft featured safety switches designed to prevent retraction while the gear struts were compressed, the manufacturer notes that bumpy terrain can cause enough movement to close the circuit and trigger retraction.
Furthermore, investigators reviewed previous flight footage from the same month. The recordings showed the pilot performing a specific takeoff profile involving low-altitude passes and gear retraction immediately after liftoff. This practice often involves placing the gear lever in the "up" position prior to liftoff to ensure immediate retraction once airborne—a procedure the manufacturer specifically advises against due to the risk of inadvertent retraction on the ground.
Findings
- The most probable cause of the accident was the inadvertent movement of the landing gear lever to the up position during the takeoff roll.
- The aircraft's electromechanical system functioned normally, with no mechanical failures, breaks, or ruptures found in the struts or actuators.
- The pilot had a valid multi-engine land rating and medical certificate.
- The aircraft was airworthy, within weight and balance limits, and properly maintained.
- Weather conditions were suitable for flight.