On September 2, 1997, a Learjet 31 (registration N71JC) operated by North American Plastics was involved in an aviation accident near Aberdeen-Amory, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flightcrew's failure to extend the landing gear. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A pilot executed a go-around due to haze and high speed on approach, then landed with gear retracted, causing a fire. Both pilots evacuated safely.
Accident Details
According to the pilot, the airplane was high and fast on final approach due to restricted visibility from haze, leading to a go-around. The pilot and copilot do not recall retracting the landing gear during the go-around. During the second approach, the pilot stated he did not extend the gear because he was 'sure in his mind that the gear was already down'. The airplane subsequently landed with the gear retracted.
Sequence of Events
The airplane slid approximately 3,000 feet after touchdown. Following the landing, a fire started under the right wing root. The fire could not be extinguished with hand-held fire extinguishers. Both pilots safely evacuated the airplane.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was the flightcrew's failure to extend the landing gear.