What happened
On 14 July 2009, a Piper PA-32RT-300 Cherokee Lance II, registration G-RHHT, was conducting a private flight to Spanhoe Airfield in Northamptonshire. After completing standard pre-departure checks and refueling, the pilot departed the airfield and proceeded toward the destination.
During the approach, the pilot configured the aircraft by selecting the final stage of flaps at approximately 300 ft. As the aircraft flared for landing, the propeller made contact with the runway surface. This impact caused the aircraft to skid along its lower fuselage for roughly 400 yards. During the skid, the right wing struck a low-level light, which resulted in the aircraft spinning to the right before coming to a stop. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft without any injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the configuration of the aircraft prior to touchdown. It was established that the pilot had performed the necessary downwind leg checks, which are intended to include verifying that the landing gear is lowered and locked. However, the pilot could not recall confirming that the three green 'down and locked' lights were illuminated during the approach.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, the underside of the fuselage, and a dent in the wing.
- The pilot failed to verify that the landing gear was fully extended and locked prior to touchdown.
- The impact of the propeller with the runway led to the subsequent skid and the wing striking a light.