Accident Details
On 14 May 1999 at 0933 hours UTC, a Piper PA-34-200T twin-engine aircraft, registered G-CTWW, executed a landing with the landing gear retracted at Rufforth Airfield, York. The flight was conducted under private operations. There was one crew member (the pilot) and two passengers on board; none reported injuries.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, manufactured in 1979, was powered by two Continental LTSIO-360-EB1 piston engines. The pilot, aged 49, held a Private Pilot's Licence with Instrument Meteorological Conditions and Night Ratings. His total flying experience was 672 hours, of which 58 were on type. In the preceding 90 days, he had flown 10 hours; in the last 28 days, 5 hours.
Damage
The aircraft sustained abrasions to the flaps, nosewheel doors, and fuselage belly. Both propellers were damaged, and the engines experienced shock loading.
Cause
The pilot openly admitted that he forgot to lower the landing gear. He attributed this mistake to not conducting proper downwind and final approach checks.