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Casualties unknown

Airplane Exits Icy Runway and Strikes Snow Bank During Landing (N2343T)

Ruidoso, NM, US

On December 27, 1997, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N2343T) was involved in an aviation accident near Ruidoso, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions and failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. Related factors were: the gusty crosswind condition, icy runway, and proximity of the snowbank. 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

During landing roll on an icy runway, the airplane exited the left side and impacted a snow bank. The pilot reported a sudden gust of wind. AWOS and airport wind data differed.

Incident Overview

During the landing roll on an icy runway, the airplane departed the left side of the runway and collided with a snow bank. The pilot attributed the deviation to a sudden gust of wind that 'pushed' the airplane leftward.

Weather Conditions

The pilot reported that at the time of landing on runway 24, the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) at the airport indicated winds from 290 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 21 knots. However, the log kept by airport personnel recorded winds from 280 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 17 knots.

Sequence of Events

The airplane was on the landing roll when it exited the runway surface to the left. The subsequent impact with a snow bank occurred immediately after departing the runway. No further details about the aircraft or occupants were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Dec 1997 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Ruidoso, NM?

During landing roll on an icy runway, the airplane exited the left side and impacted a snow bank. The pilot reported a sudden gust of wind. AWOS and airport wind data differed.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Dec 1997 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N2343T, at Ruidoso, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions and failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. Related factors were: the gusty crosswind condition, icy runway, and proximity of the snowbank.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09318. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.