Approach and Landing
The pilot obtained an automated weather briefing and airport advisory from Hernando County Airport before beginning an approach to runway 09. During the landing, the flare was normal, but the airplane floated slightly before touchdown. Immediately after touchdown, the pilot heard a loud noise and felt what seemed to be a flat tire.
Aftermath
Following the touchdown, the pilot taxied the airplane as far off the runway as possible and broadcast on the Hernando unicom frequency, also advising Tampa Approach Control of the situation. After shutting down the airplane, the pilot and passengers deplaned. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane or any of its systems prior to the accident.
Damage Inspection
The chief maintenance inspector of the fixed-based operator who recovered the wreckage reported to an FAA inspector that the airplane sustained damage to the propeller and nosewheel. Additionally, the firewall and the forward tunnel assembly were found buckled.