Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard, bounced landing and the nose landing gear collapse during a gusty landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he encountered moderate to severe turbulence below 5,000 ft mean sea level while descending to land on runway 30. During the landing flare the left wing abruptly raised up. The airplane touched down hard and bounced. The airplane settled down, the nose wheel collapsed, and the airplane skidded to a stop. The engine mount sustained substantial damage. The prevailing wind was from 230° at 11 knots gusting to 15 knots.