Aircraft belly landing during takeoff roll

No fatalities • Magadan-Sokol, Russia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after the landing gear was prematurely retracted during the takeoff roll, resulting in a belly landing.

What happened

During the initial phase of the takeoff roll, an error occurred when one of the pilots incorrectly retracted the landing gear. This premature retraction caused the aircraft to lose its support from the wheels, leading the airframe to settle directly onto its belly.

Following the impact with the runway surface, the aircraft slid for several dozen meters before the movement ceased. The incident resulted in no fatalities or injuries to those on board. However, the structural damage sustained during the slide was severe, and the aircraft was subsequently declared a total loss, being damaged beyond repair.

Findings

The primary cause of the accident was the accidental retraction of the landing gear while the aircraft was still on the ground during its takeoff run.

Probable cause

The landing gear was mistakenly raised by the pilot during the takeoff roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-09-27 Let L-410 accident near Magadan-Sokol, Russia?

An aircraft sustained heavy damage after the landing gear was prematurely retracted during the takeoff roll, resulting in a belly landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-09-27 Let L-410 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-09-27 involved a Let L-410, registration CCCP-67538, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Magadan-Sokol, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?