Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Lands Wheel-Equipped Airplane on Frozen Lake, Slides into Muskeg (N97124)

Levelock, AK, US

On March 23, 2004, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N97124) operated by Bruce C. Junes was involved in an aviation accident near Levelock, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in an overrun. Factors contributing to the accident were the pilot's inadequate weather evaluation, a tailwind, and a slippery, ice-covered landing surface. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot landed a wheel-equipped airplane on a 1,000-foot frozen lake. After touchdown, braking failed to stop the aircraft, which slid off into muskeg, damaging the propeller and landing gear attach points.

Incident Overview

A private certificated pilot conducted a landing with a wheel-equipped airplane on a frozen lake measuring approximately 1,000 feet in length. This was the second landing of the day at the same location.

Landing Sequence

The pilot reported approaching and landing toward the north. Following touchdown, he applied the brakes. The airplane did not stop within the available surface and continued sliding off the frozen lake into an area of muskeg.

Damage Assessment

According to the pilot, the airplane sustained damage to the propeller and the main landing gear attach points at the fuselage. No preaccident mechanical issues with the airplane were noted.

Post-Accident Observations

After the accident, the pilot noted a wind from the south at 5 to 10 knots. He also observed that the ice surface of the lake was slippery due to slight melting.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane before the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040325X00369. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.