Incident Overview
A pilot undergoing a checkride for a commercial pilot certificate reported that the flight examiner simulated an electrical failure and turned off the landing lights. During the subsequent night landing, the pilot stated that during the flare, visual reference with the runway was lost due to snowbanks on both sides of the runway. The aircraft then slid to the right.
Sequence of Events
The pilot explained that the right wing and right main landing gear contacted the snowbank before he realized that a drift had occurred. The incident took place on a runway flanked by snowbanks, which contributed to the loss of visual cues during the landing maneuver.
Aircraft and Conditions
The exact aircraft type, registration, and number of engines were not specified. The flight was conducted at night, with the pilot and examiner on board. No injuries or fatalities were reported in the account. The weather conditions were not detailed beyond the presence of snowbanks.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot, the simulated electrical failure was part of the checkride for his commercial pilot certificate. The examiner's action of turning off the landing lights further reduced visibility. The pilot's statement indicates that the snowbanks on both sides of the runway obscured his visual reference during the critical phase of the landing flare.