Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s improper landing flare in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a hard landing and runway excursion.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing flare in gusting wind conditions, as he "expected" to touch down he reduced engine power. He further reported that the airplane ballooned, followed by a hard landing and a bounce. During a subsequent second bounce, the nose gear collapsed. The airplane then veered left, exited the runway, and came to a stop nose down.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall.
The pilot reported there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot landed runway 23, and reported the wind as 260° at 11 knots, gusting to 17 knots.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA17CA128