On December 22, 2007, a Cessna 170B (registration N3070A) was involved in an aviation accident near Alton, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance above a frozen lake while maneuvering. Factors contributing to the accident were the pilot's attempt of the low altitude maneuver, and unfavorable lighting conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempting a low pass over a frozen lake during a pleasure flight struck the surface with the right main landing gear, causing the right wing to impact. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Incident Overview
A pilot flying with three friends on a short cross-country pleasure flight decided to make a low pass over an adjacent lake near a friend's property while entering the downwind leg at the destination airport. The pilot reported that flat light conditions and snow on the ground negatively affected his depth perception.
Sequence of Events
While maneuvering over the lake, the right main landing gear contacted the snowy frozen surface. This contact resulted in the right wing impacting the surface. The aircraft came to rest upright on the frozen lake.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and firewall.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, weather reported at an airport approximately 10 miles north of the accident site included calm winds and an overcast ceiling at 2,200 feet.