Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing, loss of directional control, and impact with a fence.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, while on final approach to land on a grass runway, he was suddenly unable to see the runway clearly, which caused him to flare the airplane late. The airplane bounced and drifted left. The left landing gear touched down in tall vegetation, and the airplane veered left and impacted a fence. The pilot further reported that he was unsure what caused his inability to see the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that, while on final approach to land on a grass runway about sunset, he was suddenly unable to see the runway with any clarity, which caused him to flare late. The airplane bounced and drifted left. The left landing gear landed in tall vegetation, and the airplane veered left and impacted the fence. The pilot further reported that he was unsure what caused the inability to see the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.