Pilot’s Improper Landing Flare, Which Resulted In A Nose Down Attitude And Subsequent Porpoised Landing

Location: Boulder, Colorado Accident Number: CEN24LA359
Date & Time: September 19, 2024, 19:35 UTC Registration: N202MM
Aircraft: Pipistrel Italia S R L Virus SW Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Abnormal runway contact Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that the airplane likely touched down on the nose landing gear first. The pilot stated that the airplane pitched upward immediately after touchdown, followed by episodes of increasing variation in pitch, then a sudden downward pitch, and the collapse of the nose landing gear. The airplane came to rest on the runway and sustained substantial damage to the engine mount and firewall.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a nose down attitude and subsequent porpoised landing. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov