Aircraft excursion during landing on frozen lake

Casualties unknown • Levelock, AK, US

A private pilot experienced an aircraft excursion after failing to stop on a frozen lake, resulting in damage to the propeller and landing gear.

What happened

During the second landing of the day, a private certificated pilot attempted to land a wheel-equipped airplane on a frozen lake measuring approximately 1,000 feet in length. The pilot performed the landing toward the north. Upon touchdown, the pilot applied the brakes; however, the aircraft failed to come to a complete stop and slid off the frozen surface of the lake into an area of muskeg.

The pilot reported that the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller and the main landing gear attachment points at the fuselage. Following the accident, the pilot observed a wind of 5 to 10 knots originating from the south and noted that the ice surface was slippery due to slight melting. There were no preaccident mechanical problems reported with the aircraft.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to stop on the frozen lake surface due to slippery conditions caused by slight melting of the ice.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-03-23 Stinson 108-2 accident near Levelock, AK?

A private pilot experienced an aircraft excursion after failing to stop on a frozen lake, resulting in damage to the propeller and landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-03-23 involved a Stinson 108-2, registration N97124, operated by Bruce C. Junes, at Levelock, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to stop on the frozen lake surface due to slippery conditions caused by slight melting of the ice.

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.

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