Incident Overview
A pilot was landing a tailwheel and tundra tire-equipped airplane at an off-airport site. Just before touchdown, the pilot felt the airplane sink and added power to correct the condition. Despite the corrective action, the airplane struck the ground hard and bounced. The pilot recovered from the bounce and brought the airplane to a full stop.
Damage Assessment
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Actions
The pilot's immediate response to the sinking sensation was to add power, but the aircraft still impacted the ground firmly before bouncing. After the bounce, the pilot was able to regain control and complete the landing roll to a stop.