Gear failure leads to belly landing at West Palm Beach Airport

No fatalities • Fort Lauderdale-Executive, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced landing gear malfunction during approach to West Palm Beach, resulting in a belly landing and significant airframe damage.

What happened

During an approach to West Palm Beach Airport, the flight crew identified a mechanical issue involving the aircraft's undercarriage that prevented the landing gear from being deployed. Following this discovery, the crew elected to divert the flight back to their base of operations located in Fort Lauderdale.

Upon returning for a subsequent approach, the landing gear remained stuck in the retracted position. To ensure a safe arrival, the crew proceeded with a planned wheels-up landing. The aircraft type impacted the surface of runway 08 on its belly. After the initial contact, the plane slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop.

Findings

All occupants on board managed to exit the aircraft uninjured. While there were no casualties, the impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair due to the structural damage sustained during the gear-up touchdown.

Probable cause

The landing gear failed to extend due to technical malfunctions with the undercarriage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2011-04-09 Rockwell Sabreliner 60 accident near Fort Lauderdale-Executive, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced landing gear malfunction during approach to West Palm Beach, resulting in a belly landing and significant airframe damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 2011-04-09 Rockwell Sabreliner 60 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2011-04-09 involved a Rockwell Sabreliner 60, registration N71CC, operated by Sabre 60 Jet, at Fort Lauderdale-Executive, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The landing gear failed to extend due to technical malfunctions with the undercarriage.

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