Primary finding
Probable cause
The solo student pilot's improper landing flare and subsequent improper recovery from a bounced landing, which resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The solo student pilot reported that, during landing, the airplane “bounced” and that he attempted to recover but upon exiting the runway surface he pulled the yoke back resulting in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent impact with the ground. Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage the left wing, engine mount, vertical stabilizer, and rudder. The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.