Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare which resulted in a hard bounced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the landing the airplane floated more than expected. According to the pilot, the airplane touched down “slightly” then became airborne and began flying again. The pilot attempted to added power to “buffer” the landing, but the airplane bounced a second time; she added more power, and the airplane bounced a third time. On the third bounce, the nose landing gear separated from the airplane. When this happened, the pilot elected to fly the airplane off the runway into the grass before coming to a stop. The engine mount sustained substantial damage.