Casualties unknown

1992-12-31: Mooney M20F (N9511M) — Charles Downing — So. Lake Tahoe, CA

So. Lake Tahoe, CA, US

On December 31, 1992, a Mooney M20F (registration N9511M) operated by Charles Downing was involved in an aviation accident near So. Lake Tahoe, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRCRAFT DUE TO GUSTING CROSS WINDS AND ICE ON THE RUNWAY. 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

After a flight to climb above forecast cloud tops, a pilot landed and encountered a gust of wind and black ice, causing loss of control and collision with a snow bank.

Flight Details

The pilot reported departing from the airport and flying over a lake in an attempt to climb above the clouds surrounding the lake basin. Upon reaching altitude, the pilot determined that the cloud tops were higher than forecast and subsequently returned to the airport for landing.

Landing and Loss of Control

After touchdown, a sudden gust of wind from the right side pushed the aircraft to the left, according to the pilot. The pilot then stated that the aircraft encountered a patch of black ice on the runway, leading to a loss of control. The aircraft veered off the runway and collided with a snow bank.

Post-Accident Examination

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector responded to the scene and examined both the aircraft and the runway. The inspector reported finding patches of black ice on the sides of the runway.

No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries 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/20001211X16198. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.