What happened
During a circling approach, the pilot observed that the runway surface was covered with snow. Upon touchdown and during the subsequent landing roll, the airplane began to slide toward the left side of the runway. In response, the pilot applied right rudder input and attempted to reverse thrust on the right propeller. Despite these corrective actions, the aircraft continued to slide for approximately 1,900 feet before departing the paved surface on the left side. The airplane then struck a snow bank, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational conditions and pilot inputs during the final phase of flight. Examination of the event revealed that the runway was snow covered at the time of landing. The pilot's attempt to regain directional control involved significant rudder deflection and propeller reversal, but the aircraft was unable to maintain runway alignment. The slide continued until the airplane left the runway environment and impacted a snow bank.
Findings
Contributing factors included the snow covered runway surface which likely reduced tire friction and directional control effectiveness. The pilot's inability to stop or steer the aircraft within the remaining runway length led to the departure from the paved area. The substantial damage was directly caused by the impact with the snow bank after sliding off the left side of the runway.