Casualties unknown

1999-04-06: Luscombe 8A (N39091) — Fairbanks, AK

Fairbanks, AK, US

On April 6, 1999, a Luscombe 8A (registration N39091) was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain the proper touchdown point on the runway. Factors in the accident were snow showers and snow-covered terrain. 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 private pilot practicing touch-and-go landings landed about 300 feet short of the runway in snow-covered terrain, causing the airplane to rapidly decelerate and nose over. Visibility was eight miles in light snow at the time.

Incident Overview

A certificated private pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings at an airport. After takeoff, the pilot began his first landing approach. The terrain surrounding the airport was covered in snow. According to the pilot, light snow showers had begun in the area, and during the approach, the light conditions were flat, reducing depth perception.

Sequence of Events

The pilot touched down in an area he believed to be the approach end of the runway. However, the airplane landed approximately 300 feet short of the runway in snow-covered terrain. Upon touchdown, the airplane rapidly decelerated and nosed over. The accident occurred shortly after takeoff.

Weather Conditions

A METAR report from the airport indicated visibility of eight miles in light snow. The snow began approximately two minutes before the accident.

Aftermath

No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source. The aircraft sustained damage from the nose-over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00403. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.