NTSB Factual Report

On June 23, 2006, at 1237 eastern daylight time, a Beech C90, N20, was substantially damaged while landing at Bradley International Airport (BDL), Windsor Locks, Connecticut. The two certificated airline transport pilots were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight that originated at the Portland International Jetport (PWM), Portland, Maine. The public use training flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

The purpose of the flight was for two Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors to maintain currency, while ferrying the airplane between Flight Standards District Offices (FSDOs). According to the inspectors, the flight to BDL was routine, and they requested four instrument landing system (ILS) approaches once they arrived in the BDL area. The first ILS approach was terminated prior to the missed approach point, due to traffic. During the second approach, the pilot flying (PF) intended to perform a touch and go landing. After touchdown the PF set takeoff power and initiated the takeoff. The non-flying pilot (NFP) then asked if the PF if he "wanted flaps up." The PF replied "yes," and the NFP inadvertently raised the landing gear instead of the flaps. The airplane's landing gear subsequently retracted, and the underside of the airplane contacted the ground. The PF then aborted the takeoff, and the airplane skidded to a stop on the runway.

Examination of the airplane by an FAA inspector revealed substantial damage to the fuselage. No mechanical anomalies were noted with the landing gear system.

NTSB Probable Cause

The non-flying pilot's improper procedure, which resulted in his inadvertent retraction of the landing gear while the airplane was on the ground.