Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while practicing procedures for approaches to back-country airstrips, he was flying in approach configuration approximately 40 to 60 feet above a mountain ridge. The wind was described as light and variable. As the airplane crossed the ridge, it encountered a downdraft, causing a sudden loss of altitude.
Sequence of Events
The pilot stated that before he could correct the situation, one of the airplane's main gear tires came into contact with the snow-covered terrain. This contact caused the airplane to slow down and subsequently flip over onto its back.
Damage
The accident sequence resulted in damage to the top of the rudder and to one of the wing lift struts.
Mechanical Condition
The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident.