Primary finding
Probable cause
The student pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced hard landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The solo student pilot reported that, during touchdown, the airplane bounced twice before he added power, and landed without further incident. A postaccident examination revealed the underside of the fuselage sustained substantial damage. The student pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.