Mar 12, 2024
Accident
Substantial Billings, MT
InjuriesNone
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
The pilot's improper engine start, resulting in the engine starters remaining engaged and the generators not being activated, which led to the discharge of the airplane’s battery and subsequent total electrical failure after takeoff. Contributing to the accident were generator caution lights not illuminating and the pilot’s inadequate manual landing gear extension, resulting in a landing with the gear not down and locked.
NTSB WPR24LA109