Incident Details
During the landing roll, the airplane veered off the runway surface and subsequently collapsed the nose gear after encountering terrain. The pilot had been receiving flight following from an Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC). Prior to the approach, the pilot inquired about any NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) for the destination airport and was informed that there were none.
On final approach, as the aircraft neared the ground, the pilot observed that only half or less of the runway pavement was visible. The remaining portion appeared to be covered with what looked like thin packed snow. The pilot stated it was difficult to judge whether the snow was loose or packed, and how deep it was.
The pilot landed on the visible pavement, which was approximately 20 to 25 feet wide. Light brake pressure was applied. The airplane then pulled to the right, and the pilot countered with left rudder input. The right main landing gear entered the snow-covered area, causing the airplane to veer sharply to the right and depart the runway. After exiting the runway, the airplane encountered terrain, resulting in the nose wheel shearing off and the cabin buckling aft of the firewall.
Conditions and Pilot Statements
Subsequent examination of the snow revealed it was loosely packed and approximately 6 inches deep. The pilot noted that he had successfully landed on packed snow and ice in previous instances without difficulty, but had no prior experience landing on loose snow of that thickness. The pilot stated that if a NOTAM had been issued or if an UNICOM operator had been on duty to advise of the runway conditions, he would have elected to return home.