NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that, during short final, he noticed "a sudden lack of wind" and the airplane began to descend. He added that the airplane landed hard and bounced multiple times. He taxied back to the parking ramp without further incident.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The owner of the airplane rental company reported that the pilot did not notify any personnel of the hard, bounded landing. He added that, during a later flight, the owner of the airplane noticed a vibration and landed to examine the airplane. Postflight examination revealed propeller damage and substantial damage to the fuselage.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard landing.