Accident Details
The student pilot reported that during touchdown, the airplane "abruptly bounced" on the runway. He increased engine power to control the descent, but the airplane bounced again and became increasingly difficult to control. The certified flight instructor, observing from the ramp, stated that on the second landing the airplane "appeared to touch down hard and begin porpoise effect."
Pilot Actions
The student pilot said the airplane then veered left of the runway centerline and departed the runway surface into a grassy area. He applied right rudder and brakes but was unable to avoid colliding with a runway sign. After the airplane came to a complete stop, he shut off the mixture control and fuel supply, retracted the flaps, radioed the tower, shut down the ignition and master switches, and waited for assistance.
Aircraft Damage
Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed that the lower portion of the firewall was buckled and the nose gear was damaged. The student pilot did not report any mechanical anomalies with the airplane.