Accident Details
The pilot was landing a private dirt airstrip at dusk. The setting sun created flat light conditions, and the airstrip gradient increased as the airplane landed to the west. The pilot reported that at about 75 knots airspeed, he increased flaps and attempted to bleed off airspeed before touching down. The landing was hard, as the pilot later stated, "because I literally did not see it coming." The nose gear collapsed, and the airplane nosed over.
Pilot Report
In the pilot's account, there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The challenging visual conditions, specifically flat light from the low sun, were cited as the primary challenge during the landing.
Aircraft Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing, the lower fuselage, and the empennage. The extent of damage required significant repairs.
Probable Cause
No official probable cause has been stated in the available source.