Introduction
An aircraft crashed on a snow-covered mountain slope while in a steep left bank and nose-low turn. The accident occurred near Tanana, Alaska, approximately 19 nautical miles south-southeast of the Tanana Airport.
Weather Conditions
At 1754 Alaska Standard Time, weather observations at Tanana Airport (elevation 227 feet MSL) reported broken clouds at 1,800 feet and an overcast ceiling at 3,500 feet, with visibility of seven miles in light snow. Winds were from 320 degrees at 18 knots. Flight advisories had been issued for turbulence in the area, and strong pressure gradients were present, capable of producing gusty low-level winds. Snow and snow showers persisted in the area well beyond the estimated time of the crash.
Crash Site
The crash site was located on a snow-covered slope at an elevation of approximately 2,550 feet MSL, significantly higher than the airport elevation of 227 feet MSL.
Wreckage Examination
Investigators examined the wreckage and found no evidence of preimpact failures. The aircraft was in a steep left bank and nose-low attitude at the time of impact.