N252MX

Substantial
None

Mooney M20KS/N: 25-1049

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, July 24, 2008
NTSB Number
LAX08CA247
Location
Chehalis, WA
Event ID
20080815X01254
Coordinates
46.676944, -122.982780
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to lower the landing gear, resulting in a gear up landing.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
MOONEY
Serial Number
25-1049
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Model / ICAO
M20KM20T
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
4
FAA Model
M20K

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
MCGINNEY FRANKLIN S
Address
5964 HWY 377 S
City
JUNCTION
State / Zip Code
TX 76849
Country
United States

Analysis

In a written report the pilot stated that he was performing a straight in approach for the runway. He reduced power and extended the speed brakes as he descended. He also made several radio calls. When the airplane was about 5 miles from the runway, the pilot performed the pre-landing checklist, which he stated includes putting the gear down. He reported that he intentionally left the gear retracted, to keep more speed on the approach. When he was 3 miles from the runway, the pilot began a conversation over the radio with another pilot who was departing the airport. He stated that he became distracted by the conversation, and did not remember to lower the landing gear. The airplane touched down in the middle of the runway with the gear retracted, and sustained structural damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# LAX08CA247