Casualties unknown

1996-06-17: Cessna 170B (N2848C) — Fairbanks, AK

Fairbanks, AK, US

On June 17, 1996, a Cessna 170B (registration N2848C) was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing and the failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. A factor in the accident was an airstrip that was rough and uneven. 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

A pilot landed long on a 2,000-foot private airstrip, touched down 140 feet before heavy braking marks, then ground looped after encountering smooth, hard surface. Right main landing gear folded aft, causing additional wing damage.

Landing and Accident Sequence

A pilot was landing on a 2,000-foot-long private airstrip. According to a witness, the airplane landed on the last third of the runway. From the initial touchdown point, the airplane rolled 140 feet, after which heavy braking and skid marks were observed on the runway. The airplane then traveled another 460 feet before coming to rest off the left side of the runway.

Pilot Report and Runway Conditions

The pilot reported that during the landing roll, he encountered rough runway conditions that remained from recent maintenance. When the airplane reached a smoother and harder surface, the pilot applied the brakes, and the airplane ground looped to the left. The airport/facility directory notes that the turf/gravel runway surface is muddy and washed, 6 to 12 inches deep, and is not maintained.

Aircraft Damage

The right main landing gear was folded aft at the gear leg attach point to the fuselage. The airplane also sustained damage to the inboard end of the right wing aft spar and the right wing tip.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05895. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.