On 21 Jun 2019, a Cirrus SR22 Undesignat operated by Performance Flight was involved in an aviation accident near Grotten, CT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper landing flare and failure to maintain pitch control, which resulted in a porpoised landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reporting gusty winds experienced porpoising on two landing attempts, leading to a go-around and substantial damage to the airplane's firewall.
Incident Overview
During a landing in gusting wind conditions, the airplane porpoised upon touchdown, according to the pilot's account. The pilot chose to execute a go-around and attempt the approach again. On the second landing, the airplane again porpoised on touchdown. The pilot was able to regain control and taxied the aircraft to the ramp without further incident.
Damage and Conditions
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The airport's automated weather observation station, reporting approximately 26 minutes after the event, indicated wind from 360° at 5 knots. The pilot reported wind from 020° at 8 knots, gusting to 14 knots, while landing on runway 5.
Contributing factors
Pitch control — Not attained/maintainedLanding flare — Not attained/maintainedPilot