Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to extend the landing gear before landing, resulting in a gear up landing and substantial damage to the airplane’s belly.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, while entering the airport traffic pattern, he became distracted by other air traffic. He stated that he failed to utilize his before-landing check list and did not extend the airplane’s landing gear. The pilot landed the airplane with the landing gear retracted, and the airplane sustained substantial damage to the underside of the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.