On August 5, 1995, a Cessna 170 (registration N2566V) was involved in an aviation accident near Coldfoot, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE DISTANCE AND/OR ALTITUDE FROM TERRAIN. RISING MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN AND DOWNDRAFTS ASSOCIATED WITH UNFAVORABLE WIND CONDITIONS WERE FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot and passenger were found in a burning wreckage after flying through a remote mountain pass against advice, with low overcast and strong north winds.
Accident Overview
A certificated private pilot and a passenger were flying northbound through a remote mountain pass. The terrain rose rapidly ahead of them. They were following a roadway that paralleled the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline.
Pre-Flight Warnings
Before departure, a state trooper and a local resident advised the pilot that flight through the pass was not recommended. They suggested an alternative route over the mountain range.
Wreckage Discovery
There were no witnesses to the accident. The wreckage was observed burning adjacent to the roadway at an elevation of about 4,500 feet mean sea level.
Weather Conditions
Weather at the pass was reported as about 1,000 feet overcast, with wind from the north at 15 to 20 knots. Isolated rain and snow showers were moving through the area.