Incident Overview
A local test flight at San Marcos Airport ended with a hard landing and substantial damage to the aircraft. The crew had completed several circuits before initiating a new approach with the copilot at the controls.
Sequence of Events
During the approach, the twin-engine airplane performed an improper level off, causing it to land hard. After touchdown, the aircraft came to rest on the runway. All four occupants evacuated without injury.
Probable Cause
An investigation determined that the hard landing was caused by an improper level off by the pilot at the controls and inadequate supervision by the pilot-in-command. The flight was a manufacturer's test flight with an FAA copilot at the controls.
Aftermath
The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair. No injuries were reported among the four occupants.