Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper flare during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he flared the airplane too soon during the landing. The airplane bounced and then landed nose wheel first, collapsing the nose gear strut. Upon further inspection it was determined that the firewall was substantially damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that he flared the airplane too soon during the landing. The airplane bounced and then landed nose wheel first, collapsing the nose gear strut. Upon further inspection it was determined that the firewall was substantially damage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.