Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was landing the airplane. With the airplane lined up on the centerline and in a controlled descent, he initiated the flare and pulled the nose up. The airplane impacted the runway and bounced, then bounced a second time before settling onto the runway. He then taxied to parking. After exiting the airplane, he noticed damage to the propeller. Further inspection revealed substantial damage to the lower structure of the fuselage and firewall.