Casualties unknown

2007-02-01: Piper PA-12 (N3233M) — Glennallen, AK

Glennallen, AK, US

On February 1, 2007, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3233M) was involved in an aviation accident near Glennallen, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed to preclude a stall while maneuvering, which resulted in an uncontrolled descent and subsequent collision with 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported encountering windshear and a left wing stall while maneuvering to land a ski-equipped airplane on a frozen lake, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

Accident Overview

A commercial certificated pilot was conducting a personal flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the airplane sustained structural damage during a landing attempt on a remote frozen lake. The pilot and a passenger were scouting the area for a wolf hunt at the time.

Pilot's Report

According to the pilot, while making a slight left turn toward the intended landing area, the airplane encountered windshear approximately 20 feet above the ground. The aircraft was configured with 20 degrees of flaps and an airspeed of about 45 mph. The pilot stated that the left wing subsequently stalled, causing the airplane to descend and collide with the surface of the lake.

The pilot described the wind conditions as light and variable, with no gusts. He also noted that the wind shifted several times after the accident.

Damage

The airplane received structural damage to the left wing, fuselage, and landing gear.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070313X00287. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.