PA-23 Apache/Geronimo Apache
Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 40; Flight Crew Total 1800; Flight Crew Type 200
Distraction; Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Flight Crew Returned To Gate; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Rejected Takeoff; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Procedure; Human Factors
During the takeoff roll and immediately after rotation; I noticed the front baggage door was not secure. I then assessed the available runway distance remaining and made the decision to reduce power and land on the runway to secure the door. I taxied to the FBO ramp and then shut down the engines and re-secured the door latch and lock. The door came unlatched because I did not have it properly locked. There was no damage to the aircraft and we continued to our destination shortly after the aborted takeoff.
As a PA-32 became airborne; the pilot noticed the front baggage door open and immediately pulled power and landed. At the FBO discovered that he had not properly closed and locked the door.