On January 3, 2002, an Aeronca 11AC (registration N302AC) was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Leelanau, MI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate caution during landing on a runway covered with unfrozen earth and wet snow, which resulted in the ski-equipped landing gear digging into the surface and causing the airplane to flip over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A ski-equipped airplane overturned after its landing gear dug into a snow-covered runway during touchdown, with the pilot citing a need for greater caution.
What happened
The accident occurred when the airplane flipped over while attempting to land. The aircraft was equipped with skis for its landing gear system. During the touchdown phase on a runway covered in snow, the skis dug into the surface, causing the aircraft to overturn.
The investigation
Following the incident, the pilot provided details regarding the condition of the airplane prior to the accident. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane that contributed to the event.
Findings
The pilot indicated that the accident could have been prevented by being more cautious when landing on unfrozen earth and wet snow.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate caution during landing on a runway covered with unfrozen earth and wet snow, which resulted in the ski-equipped landing gear digging into the surface and causing the airplane to flip over.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Jan 2002 Aeronca 11AC accident near Lake Leelanau, MI?
A ski-equipped airplane overturned after its landing gear dug into a snow-covered runway during touchdown, with the pilot citing a need for greater caution.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jan 2002 Aeronca 11AC accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jan 2002 involved an Aeronca 11AC, registration N302AC, at Lake Leelanau, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate caution during landing on a runway covered with unfrozen earth and wet snow, which resulted in the ski-equipped landing gear digging into the surface and causing the airplane to flip over.
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