What happened
On the morning of 03 June 2013, a Beechcraft King Air B200, registration ZS-GJV, departed OR Tambo International Airport for a repositioning flight to Lanseria International Airport. The flight was intended to move the aircraft to a maintenance facility for scheduled service. The flight proceeded normally until the landing phase at FALA.
Upon touchdown on runway 06L, the aircraft performed a wheels-up landing. The impact caused the propellers to strike the asphalt, resulting in an abnormal noise and visible damage to the propeller blades. The aircraft skidded approximately 300 metres along the runway before coming to a halt. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, evacuated the aircraft immediately due to concerns regarding a potential fire. While no fire occurred and the pilot sustained no injuries, the aircraft suffered substantial damage to its underbelly, engines, propellers, and various control surfaces.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the aircraft's mechanical systems. During the recovery process, which required the use of a crane and forklift, investigators noted that the landing gear doors showed evidence that the gear had not been extended prior to the impact. Although the landing gear selector was found in the "down" position at the accident site, investigators noted the possibility of interference with the selector after the event.
Technical examinations were conducted by a licensed maintenance engineer using hydraulic jacks. Extensive testing of the landing gear retraction and extension cycles, including manual emergency extension, was performed. The investigation confirmed that the hydraulic lines, squat switches, and the landing gear system itself were fully functional and operating according to manufacturer specifications. There were no recorded mechanical defects in the aircraft's technical log.
Findings
- The weather conditions were clear with no significant meteorological contributing factors.
- The pilot held a valid Airline Transport Pilot Licence and was properly rated for the aircraft type.
- The aircraft had been maintained in accordance with regulations, with all mandatory inspections up to date.
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure of the pilot to extend the landing gear prior to touchdown.