Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the flare while landing in deep snow.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during approach to his private landing strip, the airplane ballooned. He stated that when the airplane came back down it was angled about 20 degrees from the runway centerline. He said that at this point there was less than 100 feet to the edge of the runway and the right wheel contacted snow about 10 to 12 inches deep. He stated that the deep snow "pulled [him] in" and that the airplane then nosed over. The damage to the airplane consisted of a bent rudder and a bent vertical stabilizer.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during approach to his private landing strip, the airplane ballooned. He stated than when the airplane came back down it was angled about 20 degrees from thr runway centerline. He said that at this point there was less than 100 feet to the edge of the runway and the right wheel contacted snow about 10 to 12 inches deep. He stated that the deep snow "pulled [him] in" and the airplane nosed over. The damage to the airplane consisted of a bent rudder and a bent vertical stabilizer.