What happened
On April 27, 2013, a Beechcraft A36TC, registration TG-BED, was performing an approach to runway 01 at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. After entering controlled airspace, the pilot contacted Air Traffic Control (ATC) on frequency 118.10 to request landing clearance. Upon receiving instructions, the pilot proceeded with the approach but failed to execute the required landing checklist. Consequently, the pilot omitted the procedure to extend the landing gear. The aircraft subsequently made contact with the runway surface using the lower portion of the fuselage.
The investigation
The DGAC/UIA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance history, flight records, and the physical wreckage. Technical inspections of the landing gear system confirmed that the mechanism was fully operational and capable of extension. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance logs, which showed that a 100-hour/annual inspection had been completed in June 2012, and all airworthiness documents, including registration and insurance, were valid. Furthermore, the fuel was found to be uncontaminated and of the correct octane grade. Physical examination of the wreckage revealed damage to the propeller blades, the nose gear door, and the flaps on both the left and right wings due to the impact.
Findings
- The pilot failed to follow the established landing checklist, specifically omitting the command to extend the landing gear.
- The pilot's attention was diverted by monitoring instructions issued to other aircraft by ATC, which compromised situational awareness during the critical approach phase.
- The crew failed to maintain a sterile cockpit environment, leading to a loss of concentration during landing procedures.
- There were no mechanical failures or defects found in the aircraft's systems or the landing gear mechanism.