Accident Overview
On 28 November 2001, at approximately 1000Z, a Beech A36 aircraft (registration ZS-LRF) was involved in an accident during landing at a private farm airstrip near East London, South Africa. The aircraft was operated under private category with a single pilot on board. No injuries or fatalities were reported.
Flight History
According to the pilot, he had recently completed his commercial pilot license subjects and was engaged in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) practical flight training. After finishing his training with an instructor, he flew to his home airstrip on the farm. The pilot reported being late for an appointment and joined a right base for Runway 12. While performing downwind vital actions, he was contacted by Air Traffic Control (ATC) regarding traffic in the area.
Approach and Landing
During final approach, the pilot began his PUFF checks (Power, Undercarriage, Fuel, Flaps). While performing these checks, he was again called by the other aircraft. He found himself too high and too fast. He continued with short final checks and confirmed that the undercarriage was down and locked, but he noted hearing the undercarriage warning horn. Due to his recent IFR training, where he heard the warning horn frequently, he did not act on it.
Damage
The aircraft landed with the undercarriage retracted and came to a stop within 60 metres after touchdown on the grass runway. Damage was limited to the propeller, flaps, lower fuselage skin, and undercarriage doors.
Previous Accidents
The aircraft had been involved in two prior incidents:
- On 24 July 1997, the nose gear collapsed on landing at Shakawe Airport, Botswana.
- On 3 July 1999, the nose and left main landing gear collapsed after the pilot selected gear up instead of flaps while taxiing in Maun, Botswana.
Official Determination
Probable cause: Pilot failed to extend the landing gear prior to touch down.