Casualties unknown

1989-08-10: Maule M-5 (N5644W) — Crostick, Arthur — Nebesna Glacier, AK

Nebesna Glacier, AK, US

On August 10, 1989, a Maule M-5 (registration N5644W) operated by Crostick, Arthur was involved in an aviation accident near Nebesna Glacier, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT ALLOWED THE AIRCRAFT TO INADVERTENTLY TOUCH DOWN, HE DELAYED MAKING A GO-AROUND, AND HE DID NOT MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT SPEED TO CONTINUE THE GO-AROUND. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot on a hunting flight to the Nebesna Glacier area performed two go-arounds before landing in a dry river bed, where rough terrain caused the landing gear to break off.

Incident Overview

A pilot was conducting a flight to the Nebesna Glacier area for hunting purposes. During the approach to a chosen landing site, the first approach was too long, prompting a go-around. The second approach also extended beyond the intended touchdown point; the aircraft touched down and its wheels caught low shrubs, which slowed the aircraft.

Go-Around and Landing

The pilot reported adding full power for another go-around. After struggling into the air with full flaps deployed, the pilot turned toward lower terrain, which was downwind. The aircraft then encountered a downdraft and was pushed into a dry river bed. The pilot stated that a controlled landing was made approximately half a mile from the intended landing area, but the terrain was too rough, causing the landing gear to break off.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained damage to the landing gear. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or other damage were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29002. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.