At about 2140 Alaska time, the airplane was substantially damaged during landing. The commercial pilot and the sole passenger were not injured. Visual conditions prevailed; an IFR flight plan was in effect for the flight, which originated in Russia. The pilot later stated he inadvertently landed the airplane with the landing gear retracted but aborted the landing. He lowered the landing gear and landed the airplane uneventfully. Upon inspection, the centerline wing spar had cracked.
June 1, 2011, Nome, Alaska, Eclipse EA500
At about 2140 Alaska time, the airplane was substantially damaged during landing. The commercial pilot and the sole passenger were not injured. Visual conditions prevailed; an IFR flight plan was in effect for the flight, which originated in Russia.
Key Takeaways:
- An airplane sustained substantial damage after its commercial pilot inadvertently attempted a landing with the landing gear retracted.
- The pilot aborted the initial attempt, deployed the gear, and subsequently landed successfully on a second try without injury to himself or the sole passenger.
- Despite the successful second landing, a post-flight inspection revealed a cracked centerline wing spar, indicating the severity of the initial gear-up mishap.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
