On August 22, 1982, a Citabria 8GCBC (registration N88264) operated by Dennis Ward was involved in an aviation accident near Minchumina, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a low-altitude assessment of a lakeside landing site, a pilot dragged the main gear through grass and standing water, causing the aircraft to flip over.
Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a landing site assessment experienced a loss of control when the aircraft flipped over after the main gear contacted standing water during a low pass.
Sequence of Events
The pilot selected a proposed landing site adjacent to a lake. After performing four or five low passes to inspect the area, the pilot decided to evaluate the site's suitability by "dragging" the main gear along the ground. The intention was to mark the ground with the tires, then circle the site and make a final determination about whether to land.
As the pilot began the drag maneuver and the aircraft settled into the grass, the tires contacted approximately 3 inches of standing water. The aircraft then flipped over.
Outcome
The aircraft sustained damage as a result of the inverted position. No further details about the aircraft or occupants are specified in the source.