Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to remove the airplane's tow bar before takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Shortly after takeoff and following the landing gear retraction, the pilot realized that he failed to remove the tow bar from the airplane's nose landing gear. After multiple failed attempts to extend the airplane's nose landing gear, the pilot elected to retract the main landing gear and perform a gear-up landing. The airplane's fuselage and right aileron sustained damage during the landing.
Source record
Factual narrative
Shortly after takeoff and following the landing gear retraction, the pilot realized he failed to remove the tow-bar from the airplane's nose landing gear. After multiple failed attempts to extend the airplane's nose landing gear, the pilot elected to retract the main landing gear and perform a gear-up landing. The airplane's fuselage and right aileron sustained damage during the landing.