Summary
On 27 June 2000 at 1340 hours UTC, a Cessna F177RG, registration G-AYPG, operated under a Private Pilot's Licence, was involved in a landing gear incident at Haverfordwest Aerodrome, Dyfed. The aircraft, manufactured in 1971 and powered by a single Lycoming IO-360-A1B6 piston engine, sustained extensive damage. The sole occupant, the pilot, was not injured.
Narrative
The pilot, aged 51 with a total flying experience of 300 hours (82 hours on type), had flown 3 hours in the previous 90 days and 1 hour in the last 28 days. The flight was a short local circuit. During the approach to land on Runway 09, as the aircraft neared the runway threshold, the pilot noticed that the landing gear was not extended. He selected the gear down but miscalculated the time required for the gear to complete its deployment cycle. The aircraft touched down before the landing gear could lock into position. Subsequently, the aircraft settled onto its lower fuselage and came to a stop on the runway.
Post-accident Observations
The attending Airfield Fire Service noted a fuel leak from the aircraft. Additionally, the left side door became jammed, requiring the pilot to exit the aircraft through the right side passenger door. The pilot reported the incident via an Aircraft Accident Report Form.