Probable cause
The pilot's failure to extend the landing gear resulting in a wheels-up landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot being distracted by mowers near the approach end of the runway.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was performing a practice engine-out short approach as part of his pattern work. He went through his pre-landing checklist on downwind and noticed tractor mowers near the runway. During the approach he divided his attention between the "aimpoint," airspeed, and tractors next to the runway and "failed" to put the landing gear down. The airplane landed wheels up on the runway and was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions associated with the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA439 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 14, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- West Chicago, Illinois
- Nearest airport
- Dupage Airport (DPA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28R-201
- N-number
- N3714T
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.