Hard Landing and Porpoising Precede Runway Excursion

Accident Sequence

The student pilot described the landing as hard, resulting in a bounce. In response, she pulled the control yoke to its full aft position. The airplane then porpoised, and she applied the brakes but reported being unable to fully depress the right brake pedal. Subsequently, the airplane veered to the left side of the runway.

Postaccident Findings

A local mechanic examined the airplane after the accident and documented substantial damage. The yoke was broken at its lower attach point. The rudder bearing cap on the pilot-side inboard area was damaged. The rudder springs were damaged and disconnected at the tunnel. Additionally, the floorboards and firewall were buckled and creased.

Pilot Report

The student pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.