Pullman, WA, USA
N4100Z
Piper PA18
The pilot of the tailwheel- and ski-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off airport on a snow-covered ridge, the back of the right ski struck about a 6-inch-tall, firm snow drift. The right ski then pitched forward, the tip dug into the "crusty" snow, and the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and lift strut. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot of the tailwheel, ski-equipped airplane reported that, while landing off airport, on a snow-covered ridge, the back of the right ski struck about a 6" tall, firm snow drift. The right ski then pitched forward, the tip dug into the "crusty" snow, and the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and lift strut. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a nose-over.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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