On February 7, 1985, a Cessna 207A (registration N7329U) was involved in an aviation accident near Koyuk, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land short of the active runway threshold onto a former runway section where a snowmobile driver was present, resulting in a fatal collision. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft landed short of the runway threshold on a former taxiway, striking and fatally injuring a snowmobile driver who was operating in the area.
What happened
The aircraft touched down approximately 630 feet before reaching the threshold of Runway 02. The pilot explained that this landing position was intentional, chosen to utilize an upslope on the runway surface and because snow removal equipment was positioned at the far end of the runway. However, the touchdown point was not on the active pavement but rather on a section of the ramp that had previously served as an old runway. During this landing maneuver, the aircraft collided with a person operating a snowmobile, resulting in the driver's fatal injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the specific location of the touchdown and the presence of unauthorized personnel in the area. It was determined that the aircraft had left the designated active runway surface and impacted infrastructure associated with a decomposed airfield section.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land short of the active runway threshold onto a former runway section where a snowmobile driver was present, resulting in a fatal collision.
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