On March 17, 1990, a Cessna 170B (registration N4659C) was involved in an aviation accident near Sulatna Cross, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to attempt takeoff from a frozen lake with loose snow and inadequate lighting, which resulted in the horizontal stabilizer striking a tree shortly after lift-off. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempting takeoff from a frozen lake at dusk encountered loose snow that increased ground roll. Shortly after liftoff, the horizontal stabilizer struck a tree, prompting an emergency landing.
What happened
The pilot reported that he was attempting to initiate a takeoff from a frozen lake surface during dusk conditions. The presence of loose snow on the ice significantly impacted the aircraft's performance, adversely affecting the required takeoff distance. Shortly after achieving lift-off, the airplane's horizontal stabilizer struck a tree located near the departure area. Following this impact, the pilot executed an immediate emergency landing.
The investigation
The pilot stated that the accident could have been avoided if he had waited for better lighting conditions or if he had aborted the takeoff earlier in the roll.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to attempt takeoff from a frozen lake with loose snow and inadequate lighting, which resulted in the horizontal stabilizer striking a tree shortly after lift-off.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Mar 1990 Cessna 170B accident near Sulatna Cross, AK?
A pilot attempting takeoff from a frozen lake at dusk encountered loose snow that increased ground roll. Shortly after liftoff, the horizontal stabilizer struck a tree, prompting an emergency landing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Mar 1990 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N4659C, at Sulatna Cross, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to attempt takeoff from a frozen lake with loose snow and inadequate lighting, which resulted in the horizontal stabilizer striking a tree shortly after lift-off.
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