Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot did not maintain directional control while landing on a snow-contaminated runway.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he made a normal touchdown in the tailwheel-equipped airplane onto the centerline of the snow packed runway. He said that about halfway down the runway, he applied reverse thrust in an effort to slow the airplane. Shortly after entering reverse, the airplane veered about 5 degrees to the right. The pilot applied left brake and rudder to correct the turn; however, the airplane continued to the right due to the limited braking action on the runway surface. About three-quarters of the way down the runway, the airplane struck an ice chunk and the right main landing gear collapsed. The airplane’s right wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that he made a normal touchdown in the tailwheel equipped airplane onto the centerline of the snow packed runway. Approximately halfway down the runway, the pilot reversed thrust in an effort to slow the airplane down. Shortly after entering reverse, the airplane veered approximately 5 degrees to the right. The pilot applied left brake and rudder to correct the turn; however, there was limited braking action on the runway surface and the airplane continued to the right. About three quarters down the runway, the airplane struck an ice chunk and the right main landing gear collapsed. The airplane’s right wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.