Factual Information
On 27 February 2013, at 10:55 local time, a Cessna F-177RG (Reims) with registration HA-JDU executed a belly landing on runway 04 at Hajdúszoboszló Airport (LHHO). The aircraft was operated by Kék Ég Repülő Sportegyesület and was engaged in a general air traffic (GAT) visual flight rules (VFR) hobby flight. The flight was the pilot's first solo flight of the year, following a training flight with an instructor earlier that day.
Sequence of Events
During the approach to land, while preparing for touchdown, the pilot inadvertently failed to extend the landing gear. The aircraft touched down on its fuselage with the gear retracted, sliding to a stop on the runway. The landing gear system, including the gear extension control, position indicator lights, and the gear warning system (activated by throttle position), were examined post-incident and found to be fully functional. The pilot had reported his landing intentions via radio, including a false confirmation of gear-down position.
Aircraft and Pilot Details
The pilot, a 71-year-old Hungarian male, held a valid Private Pilot License (A) with SEP(land) rating, issued approximately six months prior. His total time on the Cessna F-177RG type was 11 hours and 5 minutes, with only 12 minutes (including the incident flight) in the preceding 90 days. The aircraft's last airworthiness review was on 7 September 2012, and its certificate was valid until 12 September 2013. Weight and center of gravity were within limits.
Damage
The aircraft sustained substantial damage: the lower fuselage was dented, and all three propeller blades were bent backwards. No other damage was reported. There were no injuries to the pilot or any other persons.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that no malfunctions existed in the landing gear system, warning systems, or other aircraft components. The pilot's actions were not influenced by physiological factors or impairment. The incident was attributed solely to the pilot's omission of the landing gear extension during the landing checklist.