Summary
A pilot was conducting takeoff and landing practice on a grass airstrip. According to the pilot, snow had been cleared from the center of the airstrip but remained in the surrounding areas. While on approach to land, bright sunlight reflecting off the snow caused the pilot to lose depth perception, leading to the aircraft landing short of the runway and nosing over in deep snow. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical problems with the airplane. The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings.
Details
The pilot was practicing takeoffs and landings on a grass airstrip when the incident occurred. The pilot stated that snow removal had been limited to the center portion of the airstrip, leaving deep snow on the sides. During the final approach, the combination of bright sunlight and the snow-covered surface created glare that impaired the pilot's ability to judge distance and altitude. Consequently, the aircraft touched down before reaching the runway surface. The airplane then nosed over in the deep snow adjacent to the cleared area. The pilot confirmed that the aircraft had no mechanical issues prior to the accident. The resulting damage to both wings was substantial, though no injuries were reported in the source.
Probable Cause
The pilot's loss of depth perception due to bright sunlight reflecting off snow, which resulted in a touchdown short of the runway and subsequent nose-over in deep snow.