Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper flare and inadequate recovery from a bounced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot reported that the airplane bounced during landing. The airplane then began to porpoise and after the third bounce the pilot pushed the control yoke forward. The propeller then struck the runway surface. The pilot stated that he initially believed the airplane damage was limited to the propeller. Subsequent inspection revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall and forward fuselage structure. The extent of the damage was not reported to the NTSB until June 1, 2009. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The private pilot reported that the airplane bounced during landing. The airplane then began to porpoise and after the third bounce the pilot pushed the control yoke forward. The propeller then struck the runway surface. The pilot stated that he initially believed the airplane damage was limited to the propeller. Subsequent inspection revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall and forward fuselage structure. The extent of the damage was not reported to the NTSB until June 1, 2009. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.