On September 22, 2001, a Cessna U206 (registration N3831G) operated by Leonard W. Kragness was involved in an aviation accident near Paxson, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a sign while taxiing after landing in mixed rain and snow. Factors associated with the accident are reduced visibility conditions due to the snow and rain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a cross-country flight, a pilot made an unplanned precautionary landing due to deteriorating weather. After landing, reduced visibility in rain and snow led to a collision with a sign, causing the left wing to strike the sign and the nose gear to collapse.
Incident Details
A pilot reported that during a cross-country flight, he performed an unplanned precautionary landing because of deteriorating weather conditions. The landing took place at a remote lodge airstrip.
Sequence of Events
After touching down, the pilot had difficulty seeing a sign due to reduced visibility caused by rain and snow. Just before striking the sign, he applied the brakes and attempted to turn away from it. Despite these efforts, the left wing struck the sign, and the nose gear collapsed.
Pilot's Report
The pilot stated that his ability to see the sign was impaired by the poor visibility in rain and snow. No other factors were identified in the report.