Flight Briefing and Departure
At 1030 EST, the pilot received a weather briefing for a cross-country flight. The flight originated from Benton Harbor at 1100 EST, utilizing Runway 27. At that time, the runway was reported as bare and dry.
Cross-Country Route and Return
The pilot flew to Battle Creek and Kalamazoo before returning to Benton Harbor at approximately 1415 EST. Prior to arrival, the pilot contacted Benton Harbor for wind and runway conditions but received no reply.
Approach and Runway Conditions
While entering the traffic pattern, the pilot observed wind from about 200 degrees and noted small finger-like drifts protruding onto Runway 27 for about one-quarter of its width. Runways 13/31 and 18/36 had not been plowed for four weeks and were closed. Considering the remaining width of Runway 27 and its excellent condition at 1100 EST, the pilot elected to land despite a moderate-to-strong crosswind.
Landing and Encounter with Ice
Upon touchdown, the pilot encountered glare ice across the entire width of the runway. As the aircraft slowed, the wind blew it off the right side of the runway, where it momentarily went up on its nose.