Incident Overview
A pilot recounted an event that occurred while landing on runway 26. The wind was initially reported from 240 degrees at 8 knots, then shifted to 180 degrees at 6 knots. The pilot flew the final approach with a crosswind from the left and crossed the threshold at 50 knots.
Sequence of Events
As the pilot leveled the airplane and prepared to touchdown at 45 knots, the airplane unexpectedly lifted about 7 feet and the nose pitched up by 20 degrees. In response, the pilot shoved the control stick forward and began to add power. The airplane then violently slammed onto the runway, causing the left main landing gear to collapse.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall and engine mount.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Conditions
According to the automated weather observation station located on the airport, about five minutes before the accident, the wind was from 200 degrees at 9 knots, gusting up to 14 knots.