On October 3, 1988, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N98109) was involved in an aviation accident near Eureka Lodge, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of the approach during landing on an unlighted, snow-covered private airstrip at dusk, which resulted in landing short of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempting to land at dusk on a snow-covered, unlighted private airstrip misjudged his approach and landed approximately 200 feet short of the runway threshold in heavy brush.
What happened
The pilot was operating an aircraft during dusk conditions, attempting to land at a private airstrip. The airfield lacked lighting systems and was covered in snow, creating challenging visual references for the approach.
According to the pilot's statement, he intended to touch down as close to the landing threshold as possible. This strategy was employed to avoid a large bump located in the middle of the runway surface. However, the pilot misjudged his approach path and final descent angle.
As a result of this error, the aircraft landed approximately 200 feet short of the designated runway area. The aircraft came to rest in heavy brush adjacent to the airstrip.
Probable cause
The pilot's misjudgment of the approach during landing on an unlighted, snow-covered private airstrip at dusk, which resulted in landing short of the runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Oct 1988 Piper J3C-65 accident near Eureka Lodge, AK?
A pilot attempting to land at dusk on a snow-covered, unlighted private airstrip misjudged his approach and landed approximately 200 feet short of the runway threshold in heavy brush.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Oct 1988 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N98109, at Eureka Lodge, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's misjudgment of the approach during landing on an unlighted, snow-covered private airstrip at dusk, which resulted in landing short of the runway.
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