On March 10, 1991, a Cessna 180K (registration N66036) operated by Carroll K. Moon was involved in an aviation accident near Amos Lakes, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to abort the takeoff safely due to rough surface conditions preventing acceleration, followed by loss of control on slick ice resulting in an impact with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a takeoff attempt on a frozen lake, the pilot encountered rough surface conditions that prevented reaching liftoff speed. The aircraft subsequently struck trees after hitting slick ice.
What happened
The pilot initiated a takeoff roll on a frozen lake surface. During the acceleration phase, the pilot reported encountering extremely rough surface conditions that were insufficient for the airplane to achieve the necessary airspeed for lift-off. Consequently, the takeoff was aborted.
As the aircraft decelerated, it moved into an area characterized by very slick snow-covered ice. The pilot lost directional control or failed to stop in time, causing the airplane to continue straight ahead off the lake surface and impact a line of trees before coming to a final stop.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to abort the takeoff safely due to rough surface conditions preventing acceleration, followed by loss of control on slick ice resulting in an impact with trees.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 10 Mar 1991 Cessna 180K accident near Amos Lakes, AK?
During a takeoff attempt on a frozen lake, the pilot encountered rough surface conditions that prevented reaching liftoff speed. The aircraft subsequently struck trees after hitting slick ice.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Mar 1991 involved a Cessna 180K, registration N66036, operated by Carroll K. Moon, at Amos Lakes, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to abort the takeoff safely due to rough surface conditions preventing acceleration, followed by loss of control on slick ice resulting in an impact with trees.
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