Nose Gear Collapse and Post-Impact Fire During Landing Observed by FAA Inspector (N6368E)

Event Description

An FAA inspector who witnessed the accident reported that the airplane 'seemed quite high' when it was approximately 1/2 mile from the runway on final approach. During landing, the airplane bounced on the nose gear, causing the gear to collapse. The airplane then slid 375 feet and came to rest 50 feet to the right of the runway centerline. A post-impact fire ensued.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that he was conducting a full stop landing on runway 27. When the airplane was about 50 feet above the runway at an airspeed of 70 to 80 miles per hour, the airplane nosed down and impacted the runway. The pilot noted that the stall horn did not activate. He stated that he believed the event was caused by an uncommanded nose-down control input. The pilot further attributed the accident to differences between flying from the right and left seats and his lack of experience operating from the right seat.

Inspection Findings

The FAA inspector who examined the wreckage reported no evidence of a preimpact flight control malfunction.