Incident Overview
A pilot arriving at Owens Field, an uncontrolled airport, entered the traffic pattern to land. The pilot reported that the wind sock was limp, despite a weather briefing that forecast northwesterly winds at 8 to 20 knots. In anticipation of strong winds, the pilot maintained a higher than normal airspeed on final approach.
Sequence of Events
Just before touchdown, the aircraft encountered a wind condition that caused it to descend rapidly, even though the pilot applied power. The aircraft then bounced approximately 10 feet back into the air. On the second touchdown, the nose gear and propeller sustained damage.
Pilot's Actions and Observations
The pilot stated that he did not initiate a go-around because of the wind conditions and obstacles at the end of the relatively short runway. Another pilot, who landed shortly after, reportedly encountered wind shear in the same area.
Damage
The incident resulted in damage to the nose gear and propeller. No other damage was reported.