Originally Posted by
Ozlander1
Seems like they were moved to be the same as the King Airs or something.
Long time ago and I wasn't directly involved.
Can't speak for the Baron but I seem to recall that the first Bonanza V-tails produced in late 1940s had identical and adjacent levers for gear and flaps. The FAA noticed the remarkable number of gear-up landings and ordered a redesign with flap shape for one function and a round wheel for the other.
Even that doesn't save a dozy/tired/distracted pilot. After a three-hour trip in constant turbulence I arrived at Lydd with two very distressed children in the back. After two goarounds due to slower circuit traffic I asked ATC for priority. Being distracted by more howls and vomiting I failed to lower the gear until an alert controller warned me halfway down finals.
Still grateful for that warning, 30+ years later. Thanks again ...