Nose-Over Accident on Snow-Covered Airstrip

Accident Description and Pilot Report A pilot operating a wheel-equipped airplane reported that the aircraft nosed over while landing on an unimproved, snow-covered airstrip. According to the pilot, he misjudged the surface condition. As the nose gear touched down, the wheel broke through the snow and turned sideways, causing the airplane to nose over. ## Damage and Mechanical Condition The airplane sustained substantial damage to the front windshield and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.