Event
During an instrument approach, the pilot reported being clear of clouds at about 650 feet above ground level (AGL) and proceeded visually to the airport. Approximately one-half mile from the runway, the pilot initially perceived the airplane to be too high, but within seconds sensed an excessive rate of descent. Attempts to arrest the descent were unsuccessful, and the left main landing gear struck the ground about 120 feet prior to the runway threshold.
Flight Data
Recorded data from the airplane's non-volatile memory indicated that airspeed varied between 71 and 81 knots indicated airspeed (IAS) during the 10 seconds before ground impact. The data also revealed a tailwind of approximately 3 to 5 knots during the final landing approach. The airplane's stall speed in the landing configuration with landing flaps deployed was 64 knots IAS at maximum gross weight.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there was no mechanical malfunction or system failure of the airplane.
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain a stabilized glide path resulted in the airplane touching down short of the runway.