Event Summary
A pilot and a flight instructor were conducting an approach to land when the aircraft touched down short of the runway threshold. The pilot reported that during the flare over a river, the aircraft encountered a severe downdraft, and elevator back pressure failed to stop the rapid descent. The instructor noted that the approach angle was a little bit high and observed the pilot slamming back on the control wheel just before touchdown.
Impact and Aircraft Damage
The right main landing gear impacted rapidly upsloping terrain just short of the runway threshold. Both main gear collapsed shortly after impact. The aircraft then skidded down the runway approximately 750 feet on the nose wheel and collapsed main gear, resulting in further damage.
Pilot and Instructor Accounts
The pilot stated that the severe downdraft was encountered over a river during the flare, and the elevator back pressure was insufficient to arrest the descent. The flight instructor characterized the approach angle as somewhat high and noted the pilot's abrupt control input just before touchdown.
No Other Details Provided
The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, number of occupants, injuries, date, location, time of day, weather characterization, or ATC involvement. No causal links or conclusions are drawn beyond the reported events.