Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that the airplane was high on final approach and that she initiated a slip in order to lose altitude. During the landing flare, the airplane descended faster than she anticipated and touched down hard, bouncing 4 or 5 times down the runway. The pilot applied brakes and was able to regain control, stopping the airplane on the runway. A postaccident inspection revealed substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that the airplane was high on final approach and she initiated a slip in order to lose altitude. She flared the airplane for landing; however, it sank "quickly" and hit the runway "very hard." The airplane subsequently bounced 4 or 5 times. She applied the brakes and was able to regain control. After exiting the airplane, she noticed that the nose wheel was flat. A post accident inspection revealed nose landing gear and firewall damage. The pilot reported that there were no failures or malfunctions associated with the airplane prior to the accident.