Rockwell International S-2R N8433V accident near Yellow Pine, Idaho

Probable cause

The pilot did not maintain directional control while landing on a snow-contaminated runway.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he made a normal touchdown in the tailwheel-equipped airplane onto the centerline of the snow packed runway. He said that about halfway down the runway, he applied reverse thrust in an effort to slow the airplane. Shortly after entering reverse, the airplane veered about 5 degrees to the right. The pilot applied left brake and rudder to correct the turn; however, the airplane continued to the right due to the limited braking action on the runway surface. About three-quarters of the way down the runway, the airplane struck an ice chunk and the right main landing gear collapsed. The airplane’s right wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12CA112 for the full record.