Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to extend the landing gear before landing due to distraction and his failure to conduct the before landing checklist.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he became distracted by converging traffic and the short runway while entering the traffic pattern. During the approach, he did not complete his before-landing checklist or extend the landing gear. He stated that because the engine rpm remained above the landing gear warning horn activation threshold during the approach, the horn did not sound. The airplane landed with the landing gear retracted and slid to rest on the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the lower fuselage.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA171 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 25, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Redding, California
- Nearest airport
- Benton Fld (O85)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 210
- N-number
- N6130F
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1968
- 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.