Factual Information
On 21 August 2017 at approximately 14:50 local time, a serious incident occurred at Balchik Airfield, District of Varna, involving a Cessna 172RG aircraft, registration marks LZ-SPD. The aircraft was operated by Air Operator Avio Detachment - Varna Ltd. The flight was an observation flight with a single pilot on board.
Flight History
The pilot had performed a previous flight that morning on a Cessna 172NG (non-retractable gear) without incident. After a break, he prepared for a flight on the Cessna 172RG (retractable gear) for an area observation task. During the first takeoff, the pilot suspected inaccurate readings from the Pitot static system due to possible insect ingress. He landed normally to investigate and purge the system. This landing and maintenance actions were not recorded in the aircraft technical log. After purging the Pitot tube, he took off again at about 14:10 local time. Approximately 40 minutes later, the aircraft approached Runway 34 at Balchik. Weather conditions were favorable: daylight, clear sky, light headwind of 4 m/s. During approach, the pilot saw a large flock of birds near the runway threshold, which diverted his attention. He did not extend the landing gear. The aircraft flared at normal height and speed but touched down on its belly instead of the wheels. The pilot realized the omission when the propeller struck the runway. After the aircraft came to a full stop on the runway, the pilot informed the airfield coordinator by radio, switched off the battery and fuel, and exited the cabin.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and the lower surface of the airframe. The pilot left the cabin without injuries.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the cause of the serious incident was the pilot forgetting to extend the landing gear before landing, as stated in the final report: 'The commander forgot to extend the landing gear.'