Ski Separation and Landing Gear Collapse During Landing on Frozen Lake

Accident Details

A commercial pilot was landing a ski-equipped airplane on a frozen snow-covered lake. During the landing roll, the main landing gear skis struck a snowdrift. The impact stripped the nuts that connect the skis to the main landing gear axle. Both skis subsequently separated from the airplane. The left main landing gear leg then collapsed, and the left wing struck the snow-covered frozen lake.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. No preaccident mechanical problems were identified.

Pilot Statement

The pilot noted in a report to the National Transportation Safety Board that the landing site should have been inspected before landing, and that a better area to land should have been selected.