Navion
Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 30; Flight Crew Total 210; Flight Crew Type 50
Distraction
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Ground Event / Encounter Gear Up Landing
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged
Human Factors; Procedure
I was approaching [the runway]; on a 45; at pattern altitude with the intent of landing when I heard someone call that they were using [the opposite direction runway]. I then called that I was crossing midfield with the intent of making a left downwind for [the opposite direction runway]. As I crossed I saw that the windsock was clearly showing that [the original runway] was the proper runway so I radioed that I was cancelling and leaving the pattern. I left the pattern and circled to come back across midfield again. I radioed that I was crossing midfield for a left downwind for [the original runway]. At some point; when I was setting up again; someone radioed they were going to set up for [the opposite direction runway]. I again called that I was approaching [the original runway]. After the screeching metal stopped I again looked at my checklist which was strapped to my leg. I had done all items before and after wheels down but had failed to do the most important item. I apparently allowed my attention to be diverted - stupid mistake. As to a corrective action; I believe the best advice I got; and what would have saved my plane; my wallet; and my pride; was to start the checklist over again whenever attention is diverted.
The pilot of a Navion landed with the landing gear retracted after becoming distracted with comments from other pilots as to the runway in use.