Accident Overview
On 15 November 2002 at 0930Z, a Piper PA-23-150 (registration ZS-MDL) was conducting a commercial pilot flight test at George International Airport (FAGG). The aircraft was on a circuit with asymmetric power demonstration. Weather was fine with a 5-10 knot easterly wind.
Sequence of Events
During the flight test, the testing officer shut down the left engine while on left-hand downwind for Runway 11 and instructed the student to intercept the ILS localizer and follow the glide slope. On final approach, the student selected the undercarriage down. They were very close to the threshold when the student closed the throttle, and the gear-warning horn sounded. The testing officer then took over control and landed the aircraft on its belly.
Investigation Findings
No one was injured. Damage was minimal, consisting of propeller blade scratches and minor abrasions to the bottom side of the fuselage. A retraction test performed by an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) found the undercarriage system functioned satisfactorily. System pressure was normal and there was sufficient hydraulic fluid. The last Mandatory Periodic Inspection was completed on 24 July 2002 at 5104.00 flying hours, and the aircraft had operated 96.00 hours since. The training organization held a valid Accreditation and Approval Certificate (CAA/0047) expiring on 30 June 2004.
Probable Cause
The pilot lowered the undercarriage too late resulting in a wheels-up landing.