Incident Details
The pilot reported experiencing moderate to severe turbulence during the enroute portion of the flight. A coupled instrument landing system (ILS) approach was flown without technical difficulties, but the pilot noted that the approach required a high workload. The flight broke out of cloud cover at approximately 1,000 feet above mean sea level (MSL), at which point the pilot acquired visual contact with the runway.
Approach and Landing
The pilot estimated visibility at 2 miles with moderate rain. At about 100 yards from the runway threshold, the aircraft abruptly dropped and lost airspeed. The pilot responded by relaxing elevator back pressure and adding power. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck small branches at the tops of trees. The pilot continued the visual portion of the approach. Subsequently, the aircraft landed hard, and the right main landing gear collapsed.
Post-Landing Findings
A terrain drop-off exists near the approach end of Runway 4. No further details were provided regarding the extent of damage or any other contributing factors.