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Student Pilot's Snow Landing Results in Nose-Over (N2947D)

Palmer, AK, US

On March 27, 2006, a Cessna 170B (registration N2947D) operated by Clinton Melin was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in the airplane nosing over during the landing roll. A factor associated with the accident was the snow covered terrain. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A solo student pilot on a personal flight landed on a snow-covered area near a frozen lake. The main landing gear broke through the crust, causing the airplane to nose over. The left wing, rudder, and vertical stabilizer were damaged.

Accident Summary

On a personal local flight under Part 91, a solo student pilot was sightseeing near a frozen lake. He noticed a well-marked landing area in the snow and chose to land there. During the landing roll, the main landing gear wheels broke through the crusted snow, causing the airplane to nose over. The student pilot reported damage to the left wing, rudder, and vertical stabilizer.

Pilot's Actions

The pilot, who was the sole occupant, said he elected to land after observing the marked area. The landing was conducted on snow-covered terrain adjacent to a frozen lake.

Damage Assessment

According to the pilot, the left wing, rudder, and vertical stabilizer were damaged during the accident. The extent of damage was not further specified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 2006 Cessna 170B accident near Palmer, AK?

A solo student pilot on a personal flight landed on a snow-covered area near a frozen lake. The main landing gear broke through the crust, causing the airplane to nose over. The left wing, rudder, and vertical stabilizer were damaged.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Mar 2006 Cessna 170B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 2006 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N2947D, operated by Clinton Melin, at Palmer, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in the airplane nosing over during the landing roll. A factor associated with the accident was the snow covered terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060412X00433. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.