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Wind Gust Causes Gear Collapse During Taxi on Frozen Lake (N9875X)

Anchorage, AK, US

On March 31, 1996, a Cessna 185 (registration N9875X) was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for gusty crosswind conditions. The strong, gusty crosswind was a factor. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landing a ski-equipped airplane on a frozen lake experienced a gear collapse after a gust lifted the right wing, causing the left ski to dig into snow and the wing to strike the surface.

Sequence of Events

The pilot landed a ski-equipped airplane on a frozen lake and began taxiing westward toward the parking area. Strong winds from the right introduced a weather-vaning tendency, which the pilot countered by applying engine power to maintain directional control. During the taxi, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, causing the airplane to move sideways. The left main gear ski dug into the snow, resulting in the collapse of that gear. Subsequently, the left wing struck the surface of the lake.

Wind Conditions

Wind conditions at the time were recorded as 010 degrees at 22 knots, gusting to 28 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Mar 1996 Cessna 185 accident near Anchorage, AK?

A pilot landing a ski-equipped airplane on a frozen lake experienced a gear collapse after a gust lifted the right wing, causing the left ski to dig into snow and the wing to strike the surface.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 Mar 1996 Cessna 185 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Mar 1996 involved a Cessna 185, registration N9875X, at Anchorage, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for gusty crosswind conditions. The strong, gusty crosswind was a factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05349. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.