Probable cause
The pilot's failure to extend the landing gear prior to landing, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage during landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he landed the airplane with the landing gear retracted, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage.
According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot further reported that this accident could have been prevented with a "higher degree" of diligence to checklists.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA133 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 3, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Dallas, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Dallas Executive (RBD)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
North American P 51
- N-number
- N61429
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1942
- 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.