On June 12, 1993, a Cessna 185 (registration N8536L) operated by Klawitter, Mike was involved in an aviation accident near Arctic Village, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land on a frozen lake where the ice thickness was insufficient to support the aircraft, resulting in the tires cutting through the ice and the airplane sinking into the water. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot conducted low passes over a frozen lake to test ice integrity before landing. During the rollout, tires cut into the ice, causing the aircraft to sink into approximately 30 feet of water.
What happened
The pilot performed several low passes over a frozen lake to evaluate the structural integrity and safety of the ice surface. After determining the conditions were suitable, the pilot elected to land the aircraft directly on the frozen expanse. During the final 100 feet of the landing rollout, the main landing gear tires began to cut a groove into the ice. The loss of support caused the airplane to sink into approximately 30 feet of water.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical and environmental factors leading to the incident. Examination revealed that the main landing gear tires were able to penetrate the ice surface during the rollout phase. This penetration compromised the buoyancy and stability of the aircraft, leading directly to its submersion in the underlying water.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land on a frozen lake where the ice thickness was insufficient to support the aircraft, resulting in the tires cutting through the ice and the airplane sinking into the water.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Jun 1993 Cessna 185 accident near Arctic Village, AK?
A pilot conducted low passes over a frozen lake to test ice integrity before landing. During the rollout, tires cut into the ice, causing the aircraft to sink into approximately 30 feet of water.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Jun 1993 involved a Cessna 185, registration N8536L, operated by Klawitter, Mike, at Arctic Village, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to land on a frozen lake where the ice thickness was insufficient to support the aircraft, resulting in the tires cutting through the ice and the airplane sinking into the water.
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