Flight Instructor Recounts Hard Landing After Bounced Touchdown

Incident Overview

A flight instructor reported that during a full-stop landing practice, a student pilot made a stable approach to the runway. The student initiated a flare but did not follow through, causing the airplane to bounce approximately 20 to 30 feet back into the air. The instructor then assumed control of the airplane in an attempt to salvage the landing. However, the airplane stalled and touched down hard, leading to substantial damage to the firewall and fuselage.

Instructor's Account

The flight instructor stated that he was not on the flight controls during the approach; the student pilot was flying. The student's premature or incomplete flare resulted in the high bounce. After taking control, the instructor's efforts to recover the landing were unsuccessful as the aircraft stalled. The instructor noted that there were no mechanical issues with the airplane and commented that the accident could have been prevented had he executed a go-around.

Damage Assessment

Post-incident inspection revealed substantial damage to the airplane's firewall and fuselage. No further details about other damage or injuries were provided in the source material.