What happened
On May 25, 2014, at approximately 15:40 local time, an AT-16 with registration HB-RDN was performing a private VFR approach to runway 08 at Birrfeld Airport. During the approach, the pilot followed standard checklists, confirming the landing gear was properly extended by verifying the three green lights indicating the 'gear down' position.
The aircraft completed a smooth and normal landing. However, as the pilot increased engine power at the end of the landing roll to continue taxiing toward the end of the runway, the left main landing gear suddenly collapsed. This caused the left wing to strike the ground, and the propeller made contact with the turf, leaving visible abrasions in the grass.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the aircraft and the pilot's actions during the landing phase. Upon recovery, the aircraft was lifted, and inspectors found that the left landing gear strut could be extended and locked into position without any mechanical failure or malfunction in the locking mechanism.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was pilot error involving the accidental retraction of the landing gear.
- The pilot indicated that they likely confused the control levers for the flaps and the landing gear.
- It is believed that the pilot inadvertently moved the gear lever to the up position while attempting to retract the flaps during the landing roll.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and the leading edge of the left wing.
- The pilot sustained significant injuries, while one passenger was slightly or not injured.