Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper landing flare and inadequate recovery from a bounced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot reported that, while making an approach to land, he observed that the winds were more variable and gusty than when he departed. He said that the airplane touched down and then became airborne again and began to “porpoise.” The pilot tried to regain control and stop the induced pitch oscillations, but landed hard on the nose gear, substantially damaging the firewall. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or abnormalities with the airplane before the landing.
Source record
Factual narrative
The low time private pilot reported that while making an approach to land he observed that the winds were more variable and gusty than when he had departed. During the landing the airplane touched down and then became airborne again and entered a porpoise. The pilot attempted to regain control and to stop the induced pitch oscillations but not before landing hard on the nose gear. An inspection of the airplane revealed it had sustained substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot stated that there were no abnormalities with the airplane before the landing. The accident was reported September 5, 2012, after the damage to the airplane was verified by maintenance.