Cargo Aircraft Collision with Terrain During Landing Approach

Casualties unknown • Fairbanks, AK, US

A commercial pilot flying a cargo flight collided with snow-covered terrain short of the runway during a landing approach in low visibility conditions.

What happened

A commercial certificated pilot departed on the first portion of a cargo flight after obtaining a Special VFR clearance. At the time of departure, the airport weather reported visibility of 2 1/2 miles in light snow. Following takeoff, the pilot observed that the sky conditions were deteriorating, becoming more obscured and indefinite.

Due to the worsening weather, the pilot decided to return to the airport and obtained a second Special VFR clearance for the return. The pilot was cleared to land on a runway that lacked a visual approach slope indicator (VASI). During the landing approach, the pilot reported being able to see the approach end of the runway, but noted that the lighting conditions were very flat.

While on final approach, the airplane collided with snow-covered terrain approximately 25 yards short of the runway approach end. The impact resulted in no fatalities, but the aircraft sustained significant damage, including the landing gear being sheared off, along with damage to the engine cowling, belly structure, and wing spars.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to land on a runway without a visual approach slope indicator during flat lighting conditions and deteriorating visibility.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-03-27 Piper PA-32R accident near Fairbanks, AK?

A commercial pilot flying a cargo flight collided with snow-covered terrain short of the runway during a landing approach in low visibility conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-03-27 involved a Piper PA-32R, registration N8540F, at Fairbanks, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to land on a runway without a visual approach slope indicator during flat lighting conditions and deteriorating visibility.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20579. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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