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Aircraft Crashes on Snow-Covered Terrain During Low-Level Flight (N5976D)

Galena, AK, US

On March 12, 1984, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N5976D) was involved in an aviation accident near Galena, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of control during low-level flight operations, which resulted in an impact with snow-covered terrain. 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

An aircraft crashed onto snow-covered terrain near a group of trees while conducting a low-level flight operation, resulting in severe structural damage to the nose and wing leading edges.

What happened

The pilot initiated a flight for the purpose of low-level hunting. During the course of this operation, the aircraft impacted snow-covered terrain located near a cluster of trees. Upon impact, the aircraft came to rest in a near-vertical attitude with its nose pointed downward.

The crash resulted in crushing damage to the nose section and the leading edges of the wings. Examination of the wreckage indicated that there was no evidence of significant movement after the initial impact event.

The investigation

Investigators examined the aircraft for signs of pre-impact mechanical issues. There was no evidence of significant part failure or malfunction prior to the collision with the terrain.

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of control during low-level flight operations, which resulted in an impact with snow-covered terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38926. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.