Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's misjudgement of the landing flare resulting in a hard landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
While performing landings at their home airport, the 35-hour solo student pilot experienced a hard landing and a subsequent failure of the nose landing gear. The pilot reported to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector that the landing was a "text book landing." An inspection of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the nose landing gear and firewall. Additionally, scrape marks were found on the right stabilator and tail skid. Despite numerous attempts an NTSB Form 6120 could not be obtained from the pilot.
Source record
Factual narrative
While performing landings at their home airport, the 35-hour solo student pilot experienced a hard landing and a subsequent failure of the nose landing gear. The pilot reported to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector that the landing was a "text book landing." An inspection of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the nose landing gear and firewall. Additionally, scrape marks were found of the right stabilator and tail skid. Despite numerous attempts an NTSB Form 6120 could not be obtained from the pilot.