Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare and subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the landing, as the nosewheel touched down, the airplane "hopped a bit" and began to veer left. He applied right rudder and brakes to no avail. He released the rudder and brakes, and the airplane exited the left side of the runway and impacted a raised taxiway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that, during the landing, as the nose wheel touched down, the airplane "hopped a bit" and began to veer left. He applied right rudder and brakes with no avail. He released the rudder and brakes, and the airplane exited the left side of the runway impacting a raised taxiway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.