Incident Overview
A student pilot, accompanied by a flight instructor, was conducting a full flap short field approach. The approach initially proceeded as planned until the aircraft reached approximately 40 feet above ground level (AGL) and was about 200 feet short of the runway threshold. At this point, the aircraft encountered a thermal, which suddenly increased the descent rate.
Pilot Response
The pilot added power in an attempt to arrest the descent, but the aircraft continued to sink. The flight instructor reported that the airspeed became too slow and that the aircraft lost lift. The descent could not be stopped.
Impact and Damage
The aircraft touched down approximately 20 feet short of the runway threshold. It then struck a berm, causing the landing gear to collapse. The aircraft subsequently slid to a stop on the runway. Winds were calm during the approach.
Conditions
No other conditions or factors are noted in the source.