Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing resulting in a loss of directional control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
While landing in variable wind conditions, the airplane touched down hard, and bounced. The airplane departed the side of the runway and came to rest in a grassy area. During the runway excursion, the left main landing gear buckled and damage was sustained to the empennage. The circumstances of the accident are consistent with a loss of control following a hard landing.
Source record
Factual narrative
While landing in variable wind conditions, the airplane touched down hard, and bounced. The airplane departed the side of the runway and came to rest in a grassy area. During the runway excursion, the left main landing gear buckled and damage was sustained to the empennage. The circumstances of the accident are consistent with a loss of control following a hard landing.