Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper flare, and the flight instructor's delayed remedial action.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airline transport pilot had not flown since 2001 and had recently purchased the airplane. He hired the certified flight instructor to provide instruction in his new airplane and to also prepare him for a flight review. The pilot said that he flew well and the flight was uneventful until his first landing attempt. He said he flared too soon, which caused the airspeed to dissipate. The instructor told him to add power, but the rate of descent was too great and the airplane landed hard on the left side of the runway and slid into an area of dry grass. A post-impact fire consumed the airplane. The pilot reported no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane or engine prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The airline transport pilot had not flown since 2001 and had recently purchased the airplane. He hired the certified flight instructor to provide instruction in his new airplane and to also prepare him for a flight review. The pilot said that he flew well and the flight was uneventful until his first landing attempt. He said he flared too soon, which caused the airspeed to dissipate. The instructor told him to add power, but the rate of descent was too great and the airplane landed hard on the left side of the runway and slid into an area of dry grass. A post-impact fire consumed the airplane. The pilot reported no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane or engine prior to the accident.