During The Gear Extension Process, The Passengers Heard A “Loud Bang” Under The Floor Panels

Location: Gulfport, MS Accident Number: CEN22LA138
Date & Time: March 6, 2022, 21:30 Local Registration: N8170J
Aircraft: Beech 200 Injuries: 5 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Business

On March 6, 2022, about 2130 central standard time, a Beech 200 airplane, N8170J, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT), Gulfport, Mississippi. The pilot and four passengers were not injured. The flight was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 business flight.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors, the airplane was on approach to Stennis International Airport (HAS), Bay St Louis, Mississippi, when the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear. During the gear extension process, the passengers heard a “loud bang” under the floor panels, and the pilot reported that the gear would not extend.

The pilot diverted to GPT and attempted to extend the landing gear manually, which was unsuccessful as the system was “jammed.” The pilot landed with the gear retracted and the airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage. After landing, there was a small fire under the right engine nacelle.

The airplane has been retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov