Diversion and Alternate Airport
The pilot diverted from the original destination because of weather conditions at that airport. The chosen alternate had a runway 1,800 feet long with a 1.3 percent downgrade from west to east. At the time of landing, winds were calm.
Landing Procedure Deviation
An onboard airport guide specified that landings in calm winds should be conducted uphill to the west. The pilot did not follow this procedure; instead, he initiated a landing downhill to the east.
Aircraft Performance Data
The airplane's pilot operating handbook (POH) provided performance figures for a short-field landing under conditions of gross weight, pressure, and temperature similar to those of the accident flight. On a level surface, the ground roll after touchdown was 530 feet, and the total distance required to clear a 50-foot obstacle was about 1,265 feet.
Accident Sequence
After touchdown, the airplane ran off the east end of the runway. It encountered snow beyond the runway surface and nosed over, despite heavy braking attempts by the pilot.
Postaccident Examination
During the postaccident examination, the flaps were found in an extended position. According to the POH, for a short-field landing, the flaps should be retracted during the landing roll to achieve maximum braking effectiveness.