What happened
The flight was conducted for the specific purpose of training the spouse of the aircraft owner. The objective was to ensure that this individual could maintain control of the aircraft in the event of the pilot's incapacitation. During the approach, the aircraft descended at a rate that was considered relatively high for the conditions. Upon reaching the runway surface, the aircraft touched down with significant force. This impact caused the aircraft to bounce back into the air rather than remaining on the ground.
The investigation
Following the bounce, the certified flight instructor (CFI) assumed control of the aircraft to attempt a recovery and complete the landing. Despite the instructor's efforts to manage the descent, the aircraft struck the runway again with enough force to cause mechanical failure. The nose gear collapsed upon impact. Following this structural failure, the aircraft slid along the ground until it came to a stop.
Findings
The sequence of events indicates that the high descent rate contributed directly to the hard landing. The subsequent bounce prevented a stable touchdown, leading to the collapse of the nose gear. The aircraft sustained substantial damage as a result of these forces. The training exercise for the owner's spouse was interrupted by this accident, highlighting the risks associated with high-rate descents and bounced landings during training operations.