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Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Encounters Fog and Collides with Terrain along Yukon River (N3334M)

Anvik, AK, US

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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

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.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Feb 2001 Piper PA-12 accident near Anvik, AK?

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.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Feb 2001 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N3334M, at Anvik, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

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.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010221X00485. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.