What happened
The aircraft experienced a bounced landing sequence while approaching runway 36. After touching down, the plane bounced twice before executing a third bounce that resulted in the nose section striking the ground. The pilot indicated that she was positioned high on the final approach segment with the flaps initially set to 20 degrees. In response to this configuration, she deployed the flaps fully and increased the descent angle to correct her trajectory.
The investigation
Investigation of the event focused on the pilot's account of the landing dynamics and environmental conditions. The pilot reported encountering a northwest crosswind ranging from 15 to 20 knots during the approach. Additionally, she noted that the air was turbulent due to thermals generated by heat rising from trees, fields, and a highway located south of the runway.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the accident included the pilot's decision to steepen the glide angle while high on final and the presence of rough air caused by thermal activity. The combination of these elements led to the uncontrolled bounces and subsequent nose-over incident.