Casualties unknown

2002-08-29: Cessna 206 (N5209X) — Alaksa Bush Sports — Aniak, AK

Aniak, AK, US

On August 29, 2002, a Cessna 206 (registration N5209X) operated by Alaksa Bush Sports was involved in an aviation accident near Aniak, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing. A contributing factor in the accident was the rough and uneven terrain (hole) in the landing area. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot landing a tundra tire-equipped airplane on a 900-foot terrain strip dropped into a hidden hole, damaging the nose strut, propeller, cowling, and right wing rib.

Incident Overview

A commercial certificated pilot was landing a tundra tire-equipped airplane on tundra-covered terrain to deliver camping supplies. The pilot had previously landed at the same site, which measured approximately 900 feet in length and 80 feet in width, oriented southeast/northwest. During the approach, the pilot aimed to land toward the southeast.

Landing Sequence

As the airplane touched down and began its landing roll, the nose wheel encountered an unseen hole in the terrain. The sudden drop resulted in contact damage to multiple components of the aircraft.

Damage Assessment

The impact caused structural damage to the nose wheel strut. Additionally, the propeller struck the ground, leading to damage. The engine cowling was also affected, and the outboard rib of the right wing sustained damage.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that he had previously used the same landing area without incident. He noted that the terrain was tundra-covered and that the hole was not visible during the landing.

Aftermath

No further details about the pilot's condition or the subsequent recovery of the aircraft were provided in the source. The accident investigation did not assign a probable cause.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020910X01578. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.