Casualties unknown

Pilot Loses Control During Takeoff from Deep Snow After Hitting Snow Machine Track (N9685B)

Skwentna, AK, US

On March 25, 1989, a Cessna 180-A (registration N9685B) was involved in an aviation accident near Skwentna, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING THE TAKEOFF RUN. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT IS THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF AN UNSUITABLE LANDING/TAKEOFF SITE. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot attempting to land a ski-equipped airplane in deep wet snow aborted the landing and attempted takeoff, but hit a compacted snow machine track, lost directional control, and nosed over, causing substantial damage.

Introduction

A private pilot was landing a ski-equipped airplane at an off-airport site covered in deep wet snow. During the landing roll, the airplane began sinking into the snow.

Decision to Abort Landing

The pilot elected to take off and attempt another landing in the tracks that had been created by the initial landing.

Loss of Control

While accelerating for takeoff, the right main ski struck a compacted snow machine track just before reaching lift-off speed. This caused a loss of directional control that the pilot could not regain.

Outcome

The airplane nosed over onto its back, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot later stated that the accident could have been avoided by reducing power and turning around in the landing tracks before attempting the takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Mar 1989 Cessna 180-A accident near Skwentna, AK?

A private pilot attempting to land a ski-equipped airplane in deep wet snow aborted the landing and attempted takeoff, but hit a compacted snow machine track, lost directional control, and nosed over, causing substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Mar 1989 involved a Cessna 180-A, registration N9685B, at Skwentna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING THE TAKEOFF RUN. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT IS THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF AN UNSUITABLE LANDING/TAKEOFF SITE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27816. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.