Hard Landing and Porpoising Lead to Go-Around and Substantial Damage

Event Details

The pilot reported that during the landing flare the airplane encountered localized rough air and crosswind conditions. On the first landing attempt, the airplane touched down hard and began to porpoise. Following the second bounce, the pilot initiated a go-around and requested that his pilot-rated passenger, who had more experience in the airplane, take the flight controls. The pilot-rated passenger then landed the airplane without further incident.

Aircraft Examination

A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and firewall. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. He reported winds from a variable direction at 10 knots.