What happened
On 31 December 2001, a YAK-52, registration LY-ALU, was conducting a private flight at Exeter Airport, Devon. The pilot, who was experienced with 2,700 total flying hours, had originally intended to perform a low approach and go-around but decided to land during the final approach phase.
During the approach, the pilot attempted to extend both the flaps and the landing gear simultaneously. To achieve this, the pilot moved the gear selector using a cross-handed technique, releasing his right hand from the control column. While the pilot heard the pneumatic system operating—which provides pressure for the brakes, flaps, gear, and engine starting—he did not receive positive confirmation that the gear had locked into position.
As the aircraft touched down, the landing gear was found to be retracted. The impact caused damage to the propeller and the trailing edge of the flaps, and there was potential shock loading to the engine.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's method of gear extension and the failure to verify the gear's status. The landing gear selector, located to the left of the instrument panel, is typically operated with the left hand. The aircraft utilizes two separate indication systems: an electrical system consisting of lights in both the front and rear cockpits, and a mechanical system using indicator rods with colored and white bands located on the wings and fuselage.
Investigators examined the environmental conditions and the pilot's actions during the configuration change. It was noted that the pilot's simultaneous manipulation of the controls was not his standard practice. Furthermore, the investigation looked into why the mechanical warning rods, which would have indicated the gear was not down, were not observed by the pilot.
Findings
- The pilot failed to confirm that the landing gear was in the 'DOWN' and locked position before touchdown.
- The pilot's use of a cross-handed technique to simultaneously operate the flaps and gear selector contributed to the lack of positive verification.
- Low sun position and difficult lighting conditions likely prevented the pilot from noticing that the mechanical gear warning rods were not in the correct position.
- There were no injuries to the crew, and the design of the YAK-52 helped mitigate damage, as the wheels remained partially protruding below the wing surface even when retracted.