On March 14, 1992, a Cessna 180C (registration N7019) operated by Maxwell Bennett Assoc. was involved in an aviation accident near Clarence, NY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right ski digging into the snow and dirt during a touch-and-go landing, which caused the right gear to collapse and resulted in a nose-over accident. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a touch-and-go landing, the right ski dug into snow and dirt, causing the gear to collapse and the aircraft to nosed over after sliding approximately 200 feet.
What happened
The pilot reported that following takeoff, he deployed the skis. During this phase, he observed that the ski tips were positioned low relative to the expected configuration. Deciding to continue with a touch-and-go maneuver, the pilot initiated the landing sequence.
During the touchdown phase, the right ski penetrated deeply into the snow and underlying dirt surface. This impact caused the right gear assembly to collapse immediately upon contact. The aircraft then slid forward approximately 200 feet along the ground before coming to rest in a nose-over attitude.
The investigation
No mechanical examination of the airframe or landing gear components was reported in the source material. The narrative relies solely on the pilot's account of the event sequence and immediate physical outcomes.
Probable cause
The right ski digging into the snow and dirt during a touch-and-go landing, which caused the right gear to collapse and resulted in a nose-over accident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Mar 1992 Cessna 180C accident near Clarence, NY?
During a touch-and-go landing, the right ski dug into snow and dirt, causing the gear to collapse and the aircraft to nosed over after sliding approximately 200 feet.
Were there any fatalities in the 14 Mar 1992 Cessna 180C accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Mar 1992 involved a Cessna 180C, registration N7019, operated by Maxwell Bennett Assoc., at Clarence, NY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The right ski digging into the snow and dirt during a touch-and-go landing, which caused the right gear to collapse and resulted in a nose-over accident.
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