Casualties unknown

Aircraft Veers Left on Icy Runway, Strikes Snow Bank, Collapses Landing Gear (N5349J)

Lapeer, MI, US

On February 20, 1992, a Cessna 340A (registration N5349J) operated by Bolyea, James E. was involved in an aviation accident near Lapeer, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. 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 pilot reported that shortly after landing on a partially ice- and snow-covered runway, the airplane veered left, struck a snow bank, pivoted sideways, and collapsed the left main landing gear. The pilot had been advised of near-zero braking action.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that, shortly after landing on a runway partially covered with ice and snow, the airplane veered left. The aircraft subsequently encountered a snow bank at the runway edge, pivoted sideways, and the left main landing gear collapsed.

Pilot Reports and Conditions

According to the pilot, prior to landing, they were advised that braking action was "just about none." The runway surface condition was partially covered with ice and snow.

Post-Accident Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the airplane revealed no mechanical defects. The pilot did not claim any mechanical issues with the aircraft.

Aircraft Damage

The left main landing gear collapsed as a result of the aircraft striking the snow bank and pivoting sideways.

Investigation

No mechanical malfunctions or failures were identified. The accident appears to be related to the runway surface conditions and the reported lack of braking action.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Feb 1992 Cessna 340A accident near Lapeer, MI?

A pilot reported that shortly after landing on a partially ice- and snow-covered runway, the airplane veered left, struck a snow bank, pivoted sideways, and collapsed the left main landing gear. The pilot had been advised of near-zero braking action.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Feb 1992 involved a Cessna 340A, registration N5349J, operated by Bolyea, James E., at Lapeer, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14087. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.