On October 29, 2004, a Cessna 185 (registration N185CQ) was involved in an aviation accident near Skwentna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Contact with deep wet snow during the landing roll, which caused the airplane to nose over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landing on a snow-covered site reported that deep wet snow caused the main gear to lose traction, resulting in the aircraft nosing over and sustaining structural damage.
What happened
An airline transport certificated pilot was attempting to land an airplane on a site covered with snow. During the landing roll, the main landing gear tires encountered deep, wet snow conditions. The interaction between the tires and the snow caused the airplane to nose over.
The aircraft sustained structural damage to the wings and rudder as a result of the incident. The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the event.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the landing roll. The pilot reported that the main landing gear tires contacted deep wet snow, which led to the nose-over event. No mechanical issues were identified before the accident occurred.
Probable cause
Contact with deep wet snow during the landing roll, which caused the airplane to nose over.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 29 Oct 2004 Cessna 185 accident near Skwentna, AK?
A pilot landing on a snow-covered site reported that deep wet snow caused the main gear to lose traction, resulting in the aircraft nosing over and sustaining structural damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Oct 2004 Cessna 185 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Oct 2004 involved a Cessna 185, registration N185CQ, at Skwentna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Contact with deep wet snow during the landing roll, which caused the airplane to nose over.
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