Tailwheel Airplane Noses Over During Landing on Snow-Covered Airstrip

Incident Overview

A pilot flying a tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a nose-over during a landing on a snow-covered airstrip. The pilot had been en route when he decided to land to inspect the elevator trim. Multiple passes over the airstrip led him to believe the snow was about 2 to 3 inches deep.

Landing and Nose-Over

During the landing roll, the airplane slowed and began to sink into the snow. The pilot attempted to go around, but the airplane nosed over as a result. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

Mechanical Status

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The incident appears to be related to the snow conditions rather than any mechanical issue.