Casualties unknown

Aircraft Weathervanes on Ice, Collides with Truck During Night Landing (N9950M)

Deering, AK, US

On January 18, 1984, a Cessna 207A (registration N9950M) was involved in an aviation accident near Deering, AK. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a night landing, the pilot mistook a truck positioned on the runway for a landing direction indicator. The aircraft weathervaned on ice and collided with the truck, which was being used to light smudge pots.

Accident Overview

While operating in the traffic pattern in preparation for a night landing, the pilot observed a truck belonging to the village agent. The truck was positioned approximately two-thirds of the way down the runway and was oriented facing north. Based on its location, the pilot interpreted the truck's position as an indication of the landing direction.

Sequence of Events

As the aircraft touched down and began the landing roll, the pilot noticed that the truck was actually on the side of the runway. In an effort to avoid a collision, the pilot attempted to steer the aircraft toward the west side of the runway. However, the aircraft experienced a weathervane effect on the icy runway surface, resulting in a loss of directional control. The aircraft subsequently collided with the truck.

Additional Details

It was later determined that the truck had been positioned on the runway for the purpose of lighting smudge pots. No further information was provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, injuries, or extent of damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38502. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.