Incident Overview
On final approach to a remote airstrip, the pilot of a light airplane cleared trees and then experienced a rapid sink rate, resulting in a hard touchdown on all three landing gear. The airplane bounced twice; during the third touchdown, the nose gear strut collapsed, and the airplane slid on its nose before coming to rest.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported believing that the airplane encountered a wind shear or downdraft after clearing the trees. The landing attempt was not due to an emergency. According to a second pilot, the decision to land was made due to good weather conditions and a light fuel load.
Airstrip Information
Data obtained from the Internet and attributed to the FAA indicate that the airstrip, located in remote and rugged terrain, is maintained for government use only by the U.S. Forest Service. It is recommended for emergency use only, and that only light airplanes piloted by experienced pilots should attempt to use it.
Pilot Experience
The pilot-in-command held a private pilot certificate and had accumulated approximately 193 hours of total flight time, including about 2 hours in the accident airplane make and model. The pilot did not have a current flight review.
Damage
The nose gear strut collapsed during the third touchdown, and the airplane slid on its nose. The extent of additional damage is not specified in the report.