Casualties unknown

1998-09-05: Cessna 170B (N4368M) — Craig M. Dominick — Port Alsworth, AK

Port Alsworth, AK, US

On September 5, 1998, a Cessna 170B (registration N4368M) operated by Craig M. Dominick was involved in an aviation accident near Port Alsworth, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The solo student pilot's excessive application of brakes during taxi from landing. Factors associated with the accident were the pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for a precautionary landing, rough terrain, and the fuel leak from the fuel tank vent. 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

On a cross-country training flight, a student pilot experienced carburetor ice symptoms and executed an off-airport landing on a gravel ridgetop. After landing, the aircraft nosed over and caught fire, destroying the airplane. The pilot was rescued the following day.

Circumstances

A solo student pilot was conducting a cross-country training flight. He reported that the aircraft exhibited symptoms consistent with carburetor ice, prompting him to perform an off-airport landing on a ridgetop gravel landing site for engine inspection. Winds at the time were light and variable.

Landing and Fire

After touchdown, the tires encountered a rut. The pilot applied brakes, causing the airplane to nose over. During the event, fuel discharged from the tank vent, which is located just above the windscreen, and flowed down over the engine. The aircraft subsequently caught fire and was destroyed.

Post-Accident

The Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) was consumed in the fire. The pilot was not reported as injured and was rescued the following day. No further details were provided about the aircraft type, registration, operator, or location.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10975. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.