Incident Overview
On 31 October 1998 at 1806 UTC, a Cessna 177RG, registration G-BBHI, sustained minor damage to its propeller tips and underside of the fuselage during a landing attempt at Newtownards Airport, Ireland. The aircraft was being operated under a private flight for the renewal of the pilot's night rating.
Flight Details
The pilot, aged 55 and holding a Private Pilot's Licence with IMC and Night Rating, had accumulated 672 flying hours, of which 515 were on type. His recent flying experience included 21 hours in the last 90 days and 2 hours in the last 28 days. The aircraft, manufactured in 1972, was powered by one Lycoming IO-360-A1B6 piston engine.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot's report, four landings were completed without incident. On the fifth approach, the pilot did not lower the landing gear. He had been distracted at the point where he normally performed his first gear check. He only realised the gear was still retracted during his second check, just before touchdown. He immediately commenced a go-around but was unable to arrest the rate of descent in time to prevent the propeller tips from striking the runway. The subsequent circuit and landing were completed without further incident, and no vibration was noted from the damaged propeller.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot considered that his failure to carry out the first landing gear check may have been due to firework displays in the vicinity of the airfield.
Damage and Injuries
Damage was limited to the propeller tips and the underside of the fuselage. The pilot reported no injuries.
Investigation
The information for this report was derived from the Aircraft Accident Report Form submitted by the pilot.