What happened
The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight at Mt. Snow, Vermont. As the aircraft approached the runway, it encountered icy conditions on the surface. The airplane slid upon contact with the ice-covered pavement. Recognizing the loss of control or unsafe landing parameters, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure to abort the landing.
During the climb-out portion of the go-around maneuver, the aircraft struck a snow bank located near the runway environment. This impact resulted in significant structural damage, specifically shearing off the left main landing gear assembly. Following this collision, the aircraft became airborne again but was now compromised.
The pilot declared an emergency to air traffic control and was subsequently vectored to a nearby airport for an emergency landing. Upon arrival at the alternate airport, the pilot executed a landing that resulted in further damage to the left wing of the aircraft.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the initial impact with the snow bank during the go-around caused the left main gear to separate from the airframe. Subsequent inspection confirmed additional damage to the left wing structure incurred during the emergency landing at the secondary airport.