What happened
On February 2, 2024, a Diamond DA-42 NG, registration TC-SGS, operated by Atlantik Uçuş Okulu A.Ş., was conducting a CPL-5B training flight at Tekirdağ Çorlu Atatürk Airport (LTBU). The flight crew, consisting of an instructor and a student pilot, initially planned to perform a circuit and a single-engine approach.
During the final approach, the student pilot struggled to maintain the runway centerline. While the instructor was providing corrective guidance and addressing the student's errors, the crew became distracted. Consequently, they failed to complete the final approach checklist. Upon reaching the flare phase, the crew realized that the landing gear had not been extended. To avoid a more serious accident, the crew decided to proceed with a belly landing rather than attempting a go-around. The aircraft impacted the runway on its fuselage, causing light damage to the undercarriage, nose and right landing gear doors, and the propellers.
The investigation
The UEİM investigation examined several factors, including aircraft maintenance, weight and balance, fuel levels, and meteorological conditions. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance records were up to date, all airworthiness directives had been implemented, and the aircraft was within weight and balance limits. Meteorological conditions at the time of the incident were found to be suitable for flight. The investigation also reviewed the flight crew's licenses and medical certificates, finding them to be valid and current. The investigation relied on pilot statements and data from the Aircraft Tracking System (HATS).
Findings
- The instructor pilot failed to utilize the final approach checklist.
- The crew forgot to extend the landing gear due to a loss of attention and concentration.
- The aircraft sustained light damage to the fuselage underside, gear doors, and propellers.
- There was no evidence of fatigue, impairment, or mechanical failure contributing to the event.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the instructor pilot undergo a specific training program and be referred for a check flight by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
- Administrative measures are recommended regarding the instructor's failure to use the checklist.
- The operator, Atlantik Uçuş Okulu A.Ş., should implement measures to increase awareness among all instructors and students regarding the critical importance of checklist discipline throughout all flight phases.