After Landing He Realized He Had Misidentified The Runway And Landed In Softer Snow

Location: Anchorage, Alaska Accident Number: ANC24LA019
Date & Time: March 17, 2024, 16:00 Local Registration: N696AK
Aircraft: Michael G Darby DARD 1 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Nose over/nose down Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that during approach to the snow-covered runway in flat light conditions, the runway end lights were off making it difficult to see the runway. He lined up on what he perceived to be the runway centerline and noted ski tracks to the right of his position. After a normal touchdown, he increased power for a touch-and-go; however, he noticed the skis bogged down into the soft snow. There was a sudden deceleration, and the airplane nosed over, sustaining substantial damage to the rudder. After landing he realized he had misidentified the runway and landed in softer snow, in an area between the runway and taxiway. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s loss of directional control while landing in soft snow, resulting in a nose over.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov