Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Nosed Over After Aborting Landing on Snow-Covered Runway (N134C)

Chugiak, AK, US

On April 18, 1998, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N134C) was involved in an aviation accident near Chugiak, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the landing on a runway with insufficient stopping distance due to slushy snow conditions, which led to an aborted landing and subsequent collision with brush. 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 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot attempted to abort a landing after discovering slushy snow on a short gravel runway, resulting in the aircraft striking brush and nosing over.

What happened

The private pilot was conducting an approach to land on a gravel runway measuring 1,000 feet in length and 30 feet in width. Upon initial touchdown, the pilot determined that the surface conditions were compromised by five to six inches of slushy snow. In response to these hazardous conditions, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure to abort the landing.

During the departure phase, the airplane struck brush located at the departure end of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to nosed over, resulting in significant damage to the airframe.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to continue the landing on a runway with insufficient stopping distance due to slushy snow conditions, which led to an aborted landing and subsequent collision with brush.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Apr 1998 Stinson 108-2 accident near Chugiak, AK?

A private pilot attempted to abort a landing after discovering slushy snow on a short gravel runway, resulting in the aircraft striking brush and nosing over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Apr 1998 involved a Stinson 108-2, registration N134C, at Chugiak, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to continue the landing on a runway with insufficient stopping distance due to slushy snow conditions, which led to an aborted landing and subsequent collision with brush.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09794. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.