Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to extend the landing gear before landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he forgot to extend the landing gear prior to landing on the runway. The airplane touched down and slid to a stop. A postimpact fire ensued, which resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. No preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures were found that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12CA406 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 1, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Watertown, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Watertown Municipal Airport (KRYV)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-24
- N-number
- N6580P
- 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.