Event Description
During the landing flare, the airplane collided with multiple airport objects. While in the traffic pattern for landing, the pilot was unable to lower the flaps. In the flare, the pilot lost sight of the runway and allowed the airplane to drift off the runway surface, where it struck an airport sign and runway lights.
Landing and Diversion
After the collision, the pilot performed a go-around. Unable to assess the extent of the damage, he elected to divert to another airport with longer and wider runways. The pilot subsequently made a landing without flaps at the alternate airport.
Investigation Findings
Maintenance personnel reported that the right rear passenger door contains a door/flap limit switch. When the door is ajar or open, this switch prevents flap extension. The system was functionally tested and operated normally. The investigation determined that the right rear passenger was leaning against the door, thereby deactivating the door/flap limit switch. No other discrepancies were noted.