Primary finding
Probable cause
Failure of a landing gear extension system hydraulic hose, which resulted in a landing with the landing gear retracted.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During approach, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear, but it remained retracted. The pilot was unable to extend the landing gear via normal or emergency procedures, and subsequently observed that all the hydraulic fluid had leaked out of the reservoir. The pilot diverted to a larger airport and performed a gear-up landing. During the landing, the airplane skidded right, and came to rest upright partially off the right side of the runway. Examination of the wreckage revealed substantial damage to the right horizontal stabilizer and right elevator. The examination also revealed that a hydraulic hose (possibly the original hose) had deteriorated and separated from its fitting, allowing all the hydraulic fluid to leak out of the system.