NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that during the landing flare he encountered "localized rough air" and crosswind conditions. On the first landing the airplane touched down hard and began to porpoise. Following the second bounce, the pilot initiated a go-around, and requested his pilot rated passenger, who had more experience in the airplane, to take the flight controls. The pilot rated passenger landed without further incident. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and firewall.

The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. He reported winds were from a variable direction at 10 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper level off and flare in crosswind conditions, which resulted in a loss of control and hard landing.