Accident Summary
During a landing on an unimproved snow-covered tundra area, a pilot struck a three-foot frozen snowbank, resulting in damage to the aircraft. The pilot was operating on skis with wheels retracted.
Pilot's Perception of Landing Area
Earlier in the day, the pilot received information that the landing area would be cleared or prepared and defined by flare pots. He believed he would be landing on a frozen river. After arriving after dark, he flew overhead to examine the area. From the air, he perceived the landing area as adequate and prepared by ground personnel. On short final, he observed a berm across the approach end, which he interpreted as confirmation that the strip had been leveled or prepared.
Landing and Impact
The pilot landed on skis. After touchdown, he selected reverse thrust to slow the aircraft. While decelerating through about 30 knots, the aircraft struck a three-foot frozen snowbank and was damaged. This was the pilot's first landing at this location.
Landing Area Description
The landing area was unimproved rolling, snow-covered tundra with ten-inch snowdrifts.