Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to extend the landing gear before landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during a straight-in landing approach, he inadvertently landed with the landing gear retracted. The airplane remained on the runway and slid to a stop, after which the pilot realized the landing gear handle was still in the up position. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the lower fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. A mechanic examined the airplane after the accident and confirmed that the landing gear system, including the position warning horn, functioned normally.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA26LA150 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 14, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Athens, Georgia
- Nearest airport
- Athens/Ben Epps (AHN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-24-260
- N-number
- N9024P
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1966
- 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.