What happened
A cargo flight was performing an intermediate stop at a remote airport when the aircraft encountered challenging weather conditions. The environment was characterized by overcast skies, flat lighting, and visibility ranging from 1/2 to 3/4 mile due to blowing snow. A right quartering crosswind of 20 to 30 knots was also present.
During the final approach, the pilot noted that the aircraft developed a high sink rate near the runway approach end. In an attempt to stabilize the landing approach, the pilot increased engine power. However, approximately 150 to 200 yards before reaching the approach end of the runway, the pilot encountered white-out conditions.
As the aircraft continued its descent, the nose wheel struck a snow berm located at the edge of the runway safety area. The berm was measured at 12 inches wide and 6 inches high. This impact occurred roughly 100 feet short of the runway threshold. Witnesses observed the airplane approaching the runway at a shallow angle with nearly 200 yards of distance remaining before entering the runway environment. At the time, the runway was marked using orange cones and illuminated lighting.