On February 6, 1993, a Cessna 180 (registration N3680C) operated by John D. Holmquist was involved in an aviation accident near Elmendorf Afb, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient clearance from a snow drift while maneuvering on a frozen lake, which resulted in the airplane striking the surface and damaging the right main landing gear. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A ski-equipped airplane struck a snow drift on a frozen lake while the pilot prepared for a running takeoff, resulting in damage to the right main landing gear.
What happened
The pilot of a ski-equipped airplane was preparing for a running takeoff on a frozen lake. The surface of the lake was covered with approximately two feet of fresh snow, which included some higher drifts. While executing a wide left turn to align with the takeoff path, the aircraft's nose and right wing suddenly struck the uneven snowy surface.
The impact caused significant structural damage to the airframe. Specifically, the force of the collision tore the right main landing gear box from the fuselage. The pilot reported that the incident occurred during the maneuvering phase prior to the actual takeoff roll.
The investigation
Post-acc examination confirmed the extent of the mechanical failure resulting from the ground impact. The primary finding was the detachment of the right main landing gear assembly from the aircraft's structure due to the strike against the snow drift.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient clearance from a snow drift while maneuvering on a frozen lake, which resulted in the airplane striking the surface and damaging the right main landing gear.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 Feb 1993 Cessna 180 accident near Elmendorf Afb, AK?
A ski-equipped airplane struck a snow drift on a frozen lake while the pilot prepared for a running takeoff, resulting in damage to the right main landing gear.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Feb 1993 involved a Cessna 180, registration N3680C, operated by John D. Holmquist, at Elmendorf Afb, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient clearance from a snow drift while maneuvering on a frozen lake, which resulted in the airplane striking the surface and damaging the right main landing gear.
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