On February 6, 2001, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3334M) was involved in an aviation accident near Anvik, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's continued VFR flight into instrument meteorological conditions, and subsequent in-flight collision with terrain during descent. Factors in the accident were the presence of fog, and snow-covered terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot on a VFR cross-country flight along the Yukon River encountered fog, descended to maintain ground contact, and collided with snow-covered terrain, causing damage to the aircraft.
Accident Details
A private certificated pilot departed from a remote village for a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight along the Yukon River. During the flight, the pilot reported encountering fog and subsequently descended to maintain visual contact with the ground. Shortly thereafter, the airplane suddenly collided with snow-covered terrain.
Weather Conditions
According to the available weather information, the area was reporting an overcast ceiling at 100 feet above ground level and visibility of 1.25 statute miles. These conditions were consistent with the fog encountered by the pilot.
Damage
The collision resulted in damage to the wings, fuselage, and landing gear of the aircraft. No further details about the extent of damage or occupants were provided.