Casualties unknown

1983-12-24: Cessna 425 (N6884G) — Big Piney, WY

Big Piney, WY, US

On December 24, 1983, a Cessna 425 (registration N6884G) was involved in an aviation accident near Big Piney, WY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landed at Big Piney Airport after being advised not to due to poor weather. During landing on snow-covered runway 31, the aircraft turned 90 degrees left into a 3-foot-high snowbank; the pilot cited whiteout conditions.

Incident Overview

Prior to departure, the pilot telephoned the fixed-base operator (FBO) at Big Piney Airport. The FBO advised the pilot of the poor weather conditions present at the airport and specifically recommended against landing there. Despite this advisory, the aircraft was later observed landing at Big Piney Airport.

Landing and Event

The aircraft touched down on snow-covered runway 31. Immediately after touchdown, it abruptly turned 90 degrees to the left and entered a 3-foot-high snowbank. The pilot reported that during the landing he encountered a whiteout condition, which made it impossible to distinguish features on the ground.

Pilot Statement

In a statement, the pilot explained that the whiteout condition prevented him from seeing the runway environment clearly, leading to the loss of directional control and the subsequent collision with the snowbank.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45284. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.