On August 31, 2007, a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne (registration N199MA) operated by We-Lease was involved in an aviation accident near Madison-Dane County-Truax Field, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot performed a gear-up landing due to the right main landing gear remaining stuck in the wheel well. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft performed an emergency belly landing at Madison-Dane County-Truax Field after the right main landing gear failed to extend.
What happened
During the approach phase to Madison-Dane County-Truax Field, the pilot of a twin engine aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving the landing gear. Specifically, the right main gear remained trapped within the wheel well and failed to deploy.
In response to the malfunction, the pilot elected to retract the landing gear and proceed with a landing configuration without wheels extended. The aircraft subsequently performed a belly landing on the runway. Following the impact, the plane slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop.
Findings
The two occupants on board the aircraft were able to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.
The aircraft sustained damage that was determined to be beyond repair.
Probable cause
The pilot performed a gear-up landing due to the right main landing gear remaining stuck in the wheel well.