Accident Details
An aircraft carrying a pilot and two passengers crashed approximately 7 miles from Fairbanks International Airport while returning from a hunting trip. The airplane struck the ground in a vertical attitude at a high rate of speed.
Evidence of Ski Deflection
Examination of the wreckage revealed evidence suggesting that the left wheel penetration ski had deflected inflight just prior to the crash. Other pilots who experienced similar problems with this type of ski reported that such deflection is accompanied by a violent pitch down of the airplane.
Non-Compliance with Airworthiness Directive
The pilot had not complied with an FAA airworthiness directive dated May 12, 1980, which required modification of the skis to prevent such an occurrence.
Control Interference from Tent Poles
Additionally, the pilot was aware of three tent poles that had fallen behind the aft baggage compartment but failed to remove them. Examination of one of these poles and the elevator bellcrank assembly showed signs of interference indicative of control binding.
No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or injuries were provided in the source.