Incident Overview
A pilot executing a 180° turn to reverse direction away from lowering clouds and snow showers inadvertently allowed the aircraft's right wing to contact snow-covered terrain. The pilot reported that a virtual 'white out' condition existed at the time of the maneuver. The pilot sustained no injuries, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Weather Conditions
According to the pilot's account, the flight encountered lowering clouds and snow showers, leading to a decision to reverse course. The presence of snow and a whiteout condition was noted. These weather factors contributed to the spatial disorientation that preceded the collision with terrain.
Maneuver and Collision
The pilot initiated a turn to reverse direction. During this turn, the right wing dug into the snow-covered ground. The aircraft came to rest after the impact. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or location were provided in the source.
Pilot and Aircraft Status
The pilot emerged from the incident without injury. The aircraft, however, suffered substantial damage that rendered it beyond economical repair.
Official Probable Cause
Investigators determined that the accident occurred during maneuvering in a turn to reverse direction. Contributing factors included: (1) weather condition - snow; (2) weather condition - whiteout; (3) inadvertent VFR flight into IMC by the pilot; and (4) failure to maintain proper altitude by the pilot in command.