What happened
The incident occurred during the final approach phase of a student pilot's training exercise. As the aircraft descended toward the runway, the landing gear made contact with a snow berm located at the approach end of the paved surface. Reports indicate that the accumulation of snow was not visible from the cockpit perspective, making it difficult to identify as an obstacle during the descent.
Following the impact, the instructor pilot immediately took control of the aircraft. Despite the collision with the ground feature, the instructor successfully managed the aircraft's attitude and energy, completing the landing without further incident. The aircraft remained on the runway surface after the initial contact.
The investigation
A post-incident examination of the airframe was conducted to assess the extent of the damage caused by the impact with the snow berm. The inspection revealed structural compromise to the propulsion and support systems. Specifically, the propeller sustained damage requiring attention. Additionally, the frames of the landing gear box were found to be damaged, indicating significant force was transferred through the undercarriage during the collision.