What happened
On December 29, 2015, at approximately 14:00 local time, an Aerostar YAK 52, registration SP-YTI, was performing a private VFR flight at Locarno Airport (LSZL). During the final approach phase of the landing, the pilot initiated the landing gear extension sequence. An onboard passenger, who was also a qualified YAK 52 pilot, confirmed via intercom that the operation had been completed. Audio recordings from the cockpit captured the sound of compressed air being used during the extension process. However, during the flare, eyewitnesses observed that the landing gear had not fully deployed. The aircraft subsequently touched down on a partially retracted gear.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed cockpit audio and internal video footage of the landing sequence. The investigation established that while the mechanical sound of the pneumatic system was audible, the gear failed to reach its locked position. The impact caused serious damage to the aircraft, specifically affecting the propeller, engine, and landing gear, with the airframe also requiring inspection. There were no fatalities and no injuries to third parties, though one person on board sustained slight injuries.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the incomplete extension of the landing gear during the final approach.
- The aircraft landed on a semi-closed gear assembly, leading to structural and mechanical damage.