Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a night currency flight reported that he flew to an airport with which he was not familiar. The approach appeared normal, but during the flare, the airplane collided with the runway 30 medium intensity approach lighting system runway alignment indicator lights. The airplane subsequently landed on the runway, and while taxiing to parking, the nose wheel tire deflated.
Damage and Light Masts
A total of three frangible approach lighting system light masts were struck. The first mast impacted was located 35 feet above ground level (AGL), 1,400 feet from the runway threshold, and 2,400 feet from the runway touchdown zone. The second mast was 1,200 feet from the threshold, and the third was 1,000 feet from the threshold. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the lower right aft fuselage.
Pilot Background
The pilot noted that it had been more than 90 days since his last night flight. He reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.