What happened
On September 27, 2007, a Beechcraft B90 King Air, registration G-OJRO, operating as a cargo flight from Southend, UK, arrived at Zurich Airport. During the approach to runway 14, the pilot requested permission to maintain a speed of 160 KIAS until three nautical miles from the threshold. This speed exceeded the manufacturer's maximum limit of 156 KCAS for landing gear extension.
The pilot intended to perform a long landing to facilitate a quick runway exit. As the aircraft flared approximately half a meter above the ground, the pilot realized the landing gear had not been deployed. An immediate attempt to initiate a go-around was unsuccessful, and the aircraft touched down on the runway with the gear retracted. The aircraft traveled 615 meters along the runway before veering off the right edge and coming to a stop in the grass. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft without injury, but the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight profile, cockpit procedures, and the operational environment. Investigators reviewed radar data, radio communications, and the aircraft's technical state. The inquiry focused on the pilot's decision-making regarding speed management and the availability of proper flight documentation. The investigation also looked into the technical functionality of the landing gear warning systems and the accuracy of the checklists available on board.
Findings
- The pilot operated the aircraft under self-imposed time pressure due to the decision to maintain a high speed late into the approach.
- The high speed of 160 KIAS made it difficult to establish the final landing configuration in a timely manner.
- The pilot did not utilize proper checklists during the approach, and the checklists available on board were found to be incorrect, including one designed for a two-person crew and another that was not updated for the specific aircraft model.
- The pilot did not perceive the audible landing gear warning during the approach, likely due to a lack of systematic cockpit procedures.
- There were no technical defects found in the aircraft's landing gear or warning systems.