Flight Briefing and NOTAM
The flight originated from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a destination of Salina, Kansas, and an en route stop at St. Louis, Missouri. During a preflight briefing at Pittsburgh, the pilot was advised of a NOTAM stating that the north 6,800 feet of runway 17/35 was closed, runway lights were obscured, and there were 10-foot snowbanks. The pilot did not receive a briefing during the stopover in St. Louis.
Approach and Landing
While conducting an instrument approach to Salina, the pilot contacted the Flight Service Station (FSS) and requested an airport advisory. The advisory was provided but did not include the NOTAM regarding the closed portion of runway 17/35. After breaking out of the overcast, the pilot canceled the IFR flight plan to allow another pilot to begin descent. The pilot stated that he made a night approach to runway 17 using the Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI) and approach lights. During landing, the aircraft touched down on the closed portion of the runway, which was covered in approximately 18 inches of snow.
Post-Landing Damage
When the nose of the aircraft was lowered, the nose gear failed. The damage to the aircraft was considered minor.