Student Pilot Reports Porpoising and Nose Gear Failure During Landing

Landing Sequence

According to the student pilot, the approach was fast. During touchdown on the main landing gear, the airplane bounced. The pilot then released back pressure on the yoke. Subsequently, the airplane began to porpoise uncontrollably. The nose landing gear broke off. The airplane departed the runway to the right and came to rest inverted in the grass.

Damage Assessment

An FAA inspector examined the airplane. The inspection revealed substantial damage to the firewall, vertical stabilizer, and rudder. No preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported by the pilot that would have precluded normal operation.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane. The incident sequence was described as the pilot being fast on approach, a bounce on touchdown, and then releasing back pressure, which led to the porpoising and subsequent damage.