Mooney M20M N9140M accident near Clearwater, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to extend the landing gear before landing due to his distraction regarding another airplane in the traffic pattern.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, after entering the traffic pattern for landing, he noted that there were two other airplanes in the traffic pattern. As he announced his position on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, he heard another pilot also announce his position at the same location. The accident pilot visually identified the other airplane, and that pilot reported that he would proceed behind the accident airplane to the runway. The accident pilot stated that he became preoccupied with locating the other airplane during the downwind leg of the traffic pattern and forgot to lower the landing gear. During touchdown, the propeller struck the runway, and the airplane skidded to a stop, which resulted in substantial damage to the underside of the fuselage. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12CA244 for the full record.