Incident Details
During arrival from VFR-on-top, the pilot was given radar vectors for the NDB approach. The pilot stated that he was in the clouds for only about 5 to 8 minutes during the approach. Approximately half a mile out on final approach, the nose became progressively heavy and the airspeed gauge indicated 90 knots. A go-around was initiated. Reportedly, the airspeed increased to 92 knots, but the nose pitched further down. Subsequently, the aircraft touched down hard, nosewheel first, bounced, and struck the runway. The nosewheel collapsed during the landing, and the aircraft came to rest just off the runway.
Findings
Approximately 1/8 inch of ice accumulation was found on the leading edges of the wings. An investigation revealed no flight control problems.
Pilot Statement
The pilot believed that ice had accumulated on the pitot tube. He stated that the pitot head was slow to heat after the accident. According to him, the aircraft acted like it was flying at only 75 to 80 knots when it touched down hard.