Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's delayed flare. A factor was the pilot's failure to properly secure the door prior to takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During a VFR departure the cabin door on the right side came open so the pilot elected to return to the airport for landing. The pilot was flying in the left seat when the door came open. Altitude achieved when the door came open was maintained in a modified traffic pattern during the return to the airport. During the landing the airplane struck the ground hard and collapsed the right main landing gear.
Source record
Factual narrative
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