Sequence of Events
The pilot stated that just after touchdown, the wheels went into a snowdrift approximately 2 feet deep. This pulled the airplane sideways. He applied full power to initiate a go-around. During the go-around, the aircraft struck another snowdrift about 12 to 16 inches deep. Subsequently, the airplane slid off the runway.
Runway Condition Information
The operator's dispatcher stated that he telephoned the airport and was told 'to the best of his knowledge the runway condition was good.' The airport employee responsible for plowing the runway stated that the snowplow had broken down. That employee told the dispatcher to instruct the pilot to take a good look at the runway before landing. No NOTAM was in effect pertaining to the runway condition. The Alaska Supplement flip cautions: 'Runway condition not monitored, recommend visual inspection prior to using.'
Lighting Conditions
The accident occurred 15 minutes after the beginning of civil twilight and 44 minutes before official sunrise. According to the pilot, due to the light conditions, he did not see the snowdrifts before hitting them. It was too dark to check the runway earlier in the morning.
Conclusion
The aircraft encountered snowdrifts during landing and a subsequent go-around attempt, resulting in a runway excursion. The reported runway condition was good, but the responsible snowplow was broken, and no NOTAM was issued. The pilot did not visually inspect the runway prior to landing due to low light conditions.