What happened
On 30 December 2007, a Piper PA-24-250 Comanche, registration N7348P, was conducting a private flight from Netherthorpe to Le Touquet, with a scheduled stop at Gamston Airport to collect passengers. Upon approaching Gamston, the pilot joined the right-hand downwind leg for Runway 21. After completing the downwind leg, the pilot was instructed to remain clear of the runway for approximately five to ten minutes to allow for a runway inspection to be finished.
During this period, the pilot moved the aircraft to the west of the circuit. While performing various cockpit checks, the pilot inadvertently raised the landing gear. Following the instruction that the runway was clear, the pilot rejoined for a normal approach. However, upon touchdown, it became apparent that the landing gear had not been extended. The aircraft's belly made contact with the runway, causing damage to the propeller, the underbelly antennae, and the skin of the aircraft aft of the cabin.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of cockpit actions leading to the gear-up touchdown. It was established that the pilot had performed checks that included the upward movement of the landing gear while waiting for the runway inspection to conclude. The investigation confirmed that there were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger on board, and the aircraft was subsequently recovered via crane, after which the landing gear was found to be fully functional.