M-20 J (201) / Allegro
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 28; Flight Crew Total 1500; Flight Crew Type 300
Troubleshooting; Training / Qualification; Situational Awareness; Distraction; Workload
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Ground Event / Encounter Gear Up Landing
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged; Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew FLC complied w / Automation / Advisory; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
I was on an IFR flight plan in visual conditions except for scattered clouds at approximately 4;000 feet MSL. The flight was uneventful until I tried to lower the landing gear on final. At that time; the gear actuator circuit breaker tripped and the gear stayed in the up position. I initiated a missed approach; climbed and informed the Tower who immediately switched me to Approach Control. The flight continued westbound over the water and the malfunction was confirmed and the emergency gear extension checklist completed; however; the emergency gear cable was jammed and would not move the gear down. I decided to return to [departure airport] because I believed better emergency equipment and medical facilities (if needed) were there as compared to my destination. During the flight back attempts to rectify the problem continued; at certain points in consultation with mechanics and other pilots via ATC telephone relay. I then decided a gear up landing was inevitable and began preparing. A gear up landing was eventually completed and the aircraft evacuated. There was minimal damage to the gear doors; propeller and cowling. There were no injuries and no fuel or other fluid leakage. After the flight; I provided requested information to and coordinated activates of the fire department; security; police and airport operations.
A M201J gear actuator circuit breaker tripped when the gear was selected down. A gear up landing was completed with minimal damage.