N9632S Champion 7GCAA accident

NTSB ANC20CA029 · 2020-03-03 · Sterling, AK · near 88AK

Docket — crew, injuries and powerplant

Factual narrative

In her written statement the pilot reported that while landing at a remote snow-covered airstrip, she inadvertently touched down about 20 ft short, and into an area of deep powder snow. The airplane subsequently nosed over, sustaining substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. Additionally, the pilot noted that flat light conditions made it very difficult to discern any topographical features of the airstrip and snow-covered terrain. The pilot did not submit a Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain altitude/clearance during approach, which resulted in the airplane impacting an area of deep snow. A factor associated with the accident was flat light conditions. The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident.

Circumstances

Event type

Accident

Highest injury

Minor

Weather conditions

Visual Meteorological Cond

Light condition

Day

Sky condition

OVC

Ceiling (ft)

4000

Visibility (sm)

10

Wind direction

0

Temperature (F)

7

Nearest airport

Dutch Landing Strip

Distance from field

6.0

Airport elevation

300

Aircraft

Sequence of events

Findings