Incident Overview
On 17 August 1998 at 0855 UTC, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration G-MEAH) sustained substantial damage during a wheels-up landing at Stapleford Tawney Airfield, Essex. The aircraft, manufactured in 1974, was powered by a single Lycoming IO-360-C1C piston engine. The flight was conducted under private category with two crew on board and no passengers. Neither crew member was injured.
Flight Training Details
The commander, aged 53, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and had 2,940 total flying hours, including 412 hours on type. His recent flying experience included 185 hours in the last 90 days and 63 hours in the last 28 days. The pilot under instruction was being trained in glide approach landings.
Sequence of Events
Due to a strong crosswind at circuit height, the landing gear selection was delayed until after completion of the base leg to increase glide distance. The first approach was satisfactory. However, on the second approach, the pilot failed to lower the landing gear, and the aircraft landed with the wheels retracted.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the propeller, flaps, and fuselage. The engine was shock loaded.
Probable Cause
The instructor considered that the cause of the accident was his failure to monitor the actions of the pilot under instruction.