Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
A hard landing as a result of the pilot's improper flare. A contributing factor was the prevailing wind.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The 475-hour private pilot approached runway 19 at 70 mph and selected "one notch" of flaps. The pilot stated that the wind was light and variable, but that the airplane still had a wind correction angle to the runway. The pilot stated he still had the "crab [angle]" (to the runway) still in, when he flared too high. He added that the airplane's speed was about 60 mph. The airplane's right wing dropped as he pushed the control stick forward and added engine power; however, the airplane hit the runway at a right angle of about 15-20 degrees. The airplane's nose gear collapsed and the airplane slid for 50-60 feet, before coming to rest in the upright position. Examination of the airplane revealed that the nose wheel had separated from the aircraft and the right wing had sustained substantial damage.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# DFW08CA138