On October 24, 2005, a Cessna 185 (registration N3308S) operated by Donald E. Glaser was involved in an aviation accident near Skwentna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable taxi area, which resulted in an encounter with a hidden obstruction, and an on-ground collision with trees while taxiing to takeoff. Factors associated with the accident were trees and a hidden obstruction. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot taxiing a ski-equipped airplane on snow-covered terrain struck a buried object, causing the aircraft to veer left and its left wing to hit trees, resulting in substantial damage. No mechanical anomalies were reported.
Accident Details
On a cross-country personal flight conducted under Title 14, CFR Part 91, the commercial certificated pilot was taxiing a ski-equipped airplane on snow-covered terrain at an off-airport site. While taxiing toward the end of the site in preparation for takeoff, the left ski encountered a buried object hidden beneath the snow. The impact caused the airplane to veer to the left.
Impact with Trees
Subsequently, the left wing of the airplane struck a stand of trees. The collision resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Pilot Report
The pilot indicated that the left ski struck a buried object in the snow, leading to the veer and subsequent tree strike. No other information regarding the nature of the buried object or the specific location was provided.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Oct 2005 Cessna 185 accident near Skwentna, AK?
A commercial pilot taxiing a ski-equipped airplane on snow-covered terrain struck a buried object, causing the aircraft to veer left and its left wing to hit trees, resulting in substantial damage. No mechanical anomalies were reported.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Oct 2005 Cessna 185 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Oct 2005 involved a Cessna 185, registration N3308S, operated by Donald E. Glaser, at Skwentna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's selection of an unsuitable taxi area, which resulted in an encounter with a hidden obstruction, and an on-ground collision with trees while taxiing to takeoff. Factors associated with the accident were trees and a hidden obstruction.
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