Student Pilot Experiences Bounce and Porpoise During Landing Attempt

Incident Overview

A solo student pilot reported that during the first approach to land, the airspeed was approximately 10 knots fast. During the flare, the pilot attempted to correct the airspeed by pitching back, which resulted in a hard bounce followed by porpoising on the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around and subsequently completed a normal landing after two additional go-arounds.

Aircraft Damage

The right elevator, fuselage, and firewall sustained substantial damage.

Pilot Report

The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.