Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Snow Removal Vehicles During Landing in Girdwood (N2447P)

Girdwood, AK, US

On December 29, 1988, a Piper PA-22 (registration N2447P) operated by Duncan, David G. was involved in an aviation accident near Girdwood, 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

A private pilot escaped injury when his ski-equipped airplane collided with two snow removal vehicles after landing at Girdwood Airport, Alaska. The pilot reported losing directional control while maneuvering to avoid the vehicles, which resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.

Accident Summary

A private pilot was uninjured when his airplane struck two snow removal vehicles while landing at Girdwood Airport in Girdwood, Alaska. The accident occurred after the pilot performed a touch-and-go landing and then returned for a full stop landing. The collision caused superficial damage to the vehicles and substantial damage to the airplane.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, he flew over the airstrip in his ski-equipped airplane and observed the equipment on the runway. He then returned to conduct a touch-and-go landing, hoping the equipment operators would move the vehicles once they saw his airplane approach. After completing the touch-and-go, he came around for a full stop landing.

The pilot reported that his landing roll took longer than anticipated. As he neared the end of the runway, he turned the airplane to slow down and to head for a clear area at the end of the strip. During this maneuver, he turned toward the maintenance vehicles, lost directional control, and struck both vehicles.

Operational Details

The maintenance vehicles were parked outside the runway perimeter marking cones. The field had an active Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) regarding men and equipment on the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27367. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.