Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing and his subsequent inadequate pitch and airplane control during a go around which resulted in a nose landing gear collapse.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was landing the airplane while in the right seat for the first time. During touchdown, the airplane landed hard and ballooned. The pilot then initiated a go-around and as he increased the engine power with his left hand, he also pushed forward on the control yoke with his right hand. Subsequently, the airplane landed hard again, the nose landing gear separated, and the fuselage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.