Incident Overview
A private pilot was operating a ski-equipped tailwheel airplane and had landed on a frozen seaplane airstrip. After landing, the pilot initiated a right turn to proceed from the landing site toward the parking area. During this turn, the left main landing gear ski dug into the snow, causing the left main landing gear to collapse. The collapse resulted in structural damage to the fuselage near the main landing gear attachment cluster.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical issues with the airplane. The event was not attributed to any malfunction or failure of the aircraft systems prior to the incident.
Damage Assessment
The damage was limited to the fuselage area adjacent to the main landing gear attachment cluster. No other parts of the aircraft were reported as damaged. The extent of the structural damage required repair before the aircraft could be returned to service.
Conclusion
The incident occurred due to the left main landing gear ski penetrating the snow surface during the turn, leading to the collapse of the gear. No mechanical factors were identified as contributing to the event.