Incident Overview
During a primary flight instruction session conducted under Title 14, CFR Part 91, a certificated flight instructor was providing training to a student pilot. On final approach for landing, the instructor reported that he inadvertently allowed the student pilot to descend into a snow-covered area located approximately 40 feet short of the runway threshold. As the airplane's main wheels contacted deep, hard-packed snow, the aircraft nosed down, and the right wing struck the snow-covered terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. The instructor noted that no preaccident mechanical anomalies were identified with the airplane.
Sequence of Events
The accident occurred during the landing phase of a training flight. The flight instructor, who was responsible for overseeing the student pilot's actions, allowed the aircraft to descend prematurely. The touchdown point was about 40 feet short of the runway threshold, in an area covered with deep, hard-packed snow. Upon contact, the main wheels met resistance, causing the airplane to pitch nose-down. The right wing then struck the snow, resulting in structural damage.
Damage Assessment
Post-accident inspection revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage. According to the instructor, no mechanical issues were noted before or during the flight, indicating that the accident was not related to any aircraft system failure.
Instructor's Report
The flight instructor stated that the incident was due to his inadvertent allowance of the student pilot's descent into the snow-covered area. He did not report any other contributing factors.