Hard Landing Results in Porpoising and Propeller Strike

Occurrence

During a landing attempt on runway 26, the aircraft contacted the runway with significant force, which the pilot described as "very hard." Following this initial impact, the aircraft began porpoising, experiencing a series of bounces. After two bounces, the pilot applied engine power while the aircraft's nose was already pointed downward. On the third bounce, the propeller struck the runway surface, resulting in an immediate engine stoppage and damage to the firewall.

Pilot Report

The pilot did not report any pre-accident mechanical anomalies with the aircraft. The wind conditions at the time of the accident were reported as 8 knots from 260 degrees true.