Accident Overview
A pilot reported that while conducting a low-level reconnaissance pass of a landing site on a snow-covered glacier, flat light conditions made it difficult to discern topographical features. During the pass, the airplane's left wheel/ski struck the ground, causing the left main landing gear to collapse. Subsequently, the left wing struck the snow-covered ice, sustaining substantial damage to the left wing, left wing lift strut, and fuselage.
Aircraft Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing, left wing lift strut, and fuselage. The left main landing gear collapsed after the initial ground contact.
Environmental Conditions
Flat light conditions prevailed at the time of the incident, which the pilot stated hindered the ability to distinguish terrain features on the snow-covered glacier surface.
Pilot Statement
The pilot provided a statement describing the sequence of events: during the low-level pass, the left wheel/ski contacted the ground unexpectedly, leading to the collapse of the left main landing gear and subsequent wing strike.
Investigation Status
No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, time of day, or pilot qualifications were provided in the source. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The investigation is ongoing or closed based on available information; the source did not specify.