Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard, bounced landing and a subsequent loss of control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that on final approach, he “started the flare too late,” which resulted in a “high bounce.” He attempted to recover, however the airplane “bounce[d]” again. The pilot initiated a go around, but with the “high angle of attack” of the airplane, he “lost control.” The airplane veered off the side of the runway and impacted a ditch, which sheared off the main landing gear, and resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.