Casualties unknown

Charter Flight Collides with Tundra After Departure (N20024)

Bethel, AK, US

On December 4, 1996, a Cessna 172M (registration N20024) was involved in an aviation accident near Bethel, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper planning/decision, and resultant failure to obtain/maintain sufficient airspeed during takeoff. A factor related the accident was: taking off with a tailwind. 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

An on-demand charter flight with a pilot and two passengers departed runway 11 but failed to climb, hitting snow-covered tundra about 1/8 mile from the runway end. The aircraft was 120 lbs under max gross weight.

Accident Overview

A cross-country on-demand charter flight ended shortly after departure when the aircraft, carrying a pilot and two passengers, failed to climb and collided with snow-covered tundra terrain. The accident occurred approximately 1/8 mile from the departure end of runway 11. The aircraft was 120 pounds below its maximum gross weight at the time of departure.

Pre-Event Observations

According to the operator, the pilot and a mechanic passenger reported that the aircraft's lights flickered on and off, and they detected an odor similar to overheated electrical wiring during the flight. However, an inspection conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) did not reveal any mechanical malfunction.

Weather Conditions

Wind observations taken just before and after the accident indicated winds ranging from 300 to 312 degrees at 9 knots.

Occurrence Details

After lift off from runway 11, the aircraft was unable to gain altitude and subsequently struck the snow-covered tundra. The terrain was described as tundra covered with snow. No further details about the extent of damage or injuries were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Dec 1996 Cessna 172M accident near Bethel, AK?

An on-demand charter flight with a pilot and two passengers departed runway 11 but failed to climb, hitting snow-covered tundra about 1/8 mile from the runway end. The aircraft was 120 lbs under max gross weight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Dec 1996 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N20024, at Bethel, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper planning/decision, and resultant failure to obtain/maintain sufficient airspeed during takeoff. A factor related the accident was: taking off with a tailwind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07123. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.