Casualties unknown

2007-03-11: Cessna 177 (N2911X) — Gridwood, AK

Gridwood, AK, US

On March 11, 2007, a Cessna 177 (registration N2911X) was involved in an aviation accident near Gridwood, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of a snow-covered runway for landing, which resulted in a quick stop and damage to the airplane. A factor associated with the accident was the snow-covered runway. 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 private pilot's wheel-equipped airplane struck deep snow during landing on an unmonitored runway, resulting in damage to the right wing and propeller. The pilot had performed a low pass to assess conditions.

Overview

A private certificated pilot was conducting a cross-country personal flight under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The pilot reported that prior to landing, he checked the available sources to determine the condition of the destination airport's unmonitored runway.

Flight Details

The pilot performed a low pass over the snow-covered runway. He observed berms on either side and concluded that the runway had been plowed. No mechanical issues with the airplane were noted before the accident.

Landing and Accident Sequence

During the landing attempt, the wheel-equipped airplane encountered deep snow, resulting in an abrupt stop. The right wing and propeller struck the ground during the event, causing damage.

Airport Information

The FAA's Alaska Airport Supplement states: "Unattended, runway not monitored, recommend visual inspection prior to landing." The pilot had attempted to visually inspect the runway via a low pass.

Damage

The accident damaged the airplane's right wing and propeller.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070426X00459. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.