Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper flare and subsequent loss of directional control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he was conducting night takeoffs and landings. During the first landing, he flared too high and landed hard. The airplane veered off the runway, hit a drainage ditch, and nosed over. The pilot did not report experiencing any flight control or mechanical anomalies with the airplane during the landing. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the firewall and wings were substantially damaged. Winds about the time of the accident were light and variable.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that he was conducting, night takeoff and landings. During the first landing, he flared too high and landed hard. The airplane veered off the runway, hit a drainage ditch, and nosed over. The pilot did not report experiencing any flight control or mechanical anomalies with the airplane during the landing. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the firewall and wings were substantially damaged. Winds about the time of the accident were light and variable.