What happened
The pilot was conducting a night landing operation on a runway surface covered with compacted snow. Environmental conditions included winds estimated from approximately 20 degrees to the right of the runway heading. Initial touchdown occurred within normal parameters; however, as the aircraft began its rollout phase, the pilot lost visual reference to the runway edge lights. This loss of visual guidance was attributed to snow banks lining both sides of the runway. Consequently, the airplane drifted laterally to the left and impacted the snow bank located on the left side of the runway.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational environment and pilot situational awareness during the critical landing phase. Examination of the scene confirmed the presence of compacted snow on the runway surface and significant snow banks along the shoulders. These physical barriers obstructed the visibility of the runway lighting system, which is essential for lateral guidance during low-visibility night operations.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the incident was the pilot's failure to maintain visual contact with the runway environment due to obstructions caused by snow accumulation. The compacted snow on the runway surface may have also affected braking efficiency, though the immediate cause of the excursion was the loss of visual reference. The alignment of the aircraft deviated from the centerline as a result of this disorientation.
Safety message
Pilots operating in winter conditions should be aware that snow banks along runways can significantly reduce visibility of edge lights and other critical visual cues. Maintaining situational awareness and using available instrument guidance is essential when visual references are compromised.