Accident Overview
On January 14, 2010, about 1030 Alaska standard time, a wheel ski-equipped Piper PA-12 airplane, registration N3233M, sustained substantial damage after landing on a snow-covered lake approximately 15 miles southeast of Gulkana, Alaska. The aircraft was operated by Copper Valley Air Service Inc., of Glennallen, Alaska, as a visual flight rules (VFR) passenger flight under Title 14, CFR Part 135. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and company flight following procedures were in effect.
Flight Details
The flight departed the Gulkana Airport about 1030 with a destination of McCarthy, Alaska. The commercial pilot and sole passenger were not injured.
Pilot Report
During a telephone conversation with the NTSB investigator-in-charge on January 15, the pilot reported that because of the cold outside temperature, he departed Gulkana with the airplane's oil cooler cover in place. After departure, the engine temperature increased significantly, prompting him to decide to land and remove the oil cooler cover. He chose a snow-covered lake for landing. After landing, he continued taxiing to lay down tracks in the newly fallen snow to aid in a subsequent departure. While laying down tracks, the airplane's skis hit a ridge hidden under the snow. The pilot examined the airplane and found that a fuselage frame tube had broken near the right main landing gear attachment. He then called for another airplane to pick up his passenger. The pilot stated there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the flight.
Damage and Outcome
The aircraft sustained substantial damage due to the broken fuselage frame tube. No injuries were reported. The pilot arranged for the passenger's pickup by another aircraft.