Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that during a low level reconnaissance pass of a frozen, snow-covered lake, the airplane inadvertently contacted the snow in flat light conditions, and nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that, during a low level reconnaissance pass of a frozen, snow-covered lake, he inadvertently contacted the snow in flat light conditions, and the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.