Accident Overview
A pilot flying a tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced an accident while landing on a small, snow-covered airstrip. The surface of the snow had been compacted by numerous snow machine tracks, creating a crusty layer. Prior to landing, the pilot performed a low pass to assess the runway conditions.
Landing and Sequence of Events
After the low pass, the pilot proceeded to land. During the landing roll, the left tire broke through the crusty surface of the snow and sank. This caused the airplane to nose over. The aircraft sustained damage to the right wing, the right wing lift strut, the vertical stabilizer, and the propeller.
Aircraft and Conditions
The airplane was tailwheel-configured. The airstrip was small and covered with snow. The snow surface was compacted by snow machine tracks, which likely created a variable crust strength. The low pass was intended to assess the runway, but the surface conditions still led to the tire penetration.
Damage Assessment
Specific damage items include the right wing, the right wing lift strut, the vertical stabilizer, and the propeller. No other damage or injuries were reported in the source.