2 fatalities

Single-Engine Airplane Crashes in Whiteout Conditions on Flight from Galena to Anchorage (N91083)

Skwentna, United States of AmericaFlight

On November 6, 1981, a Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair (registration N91083) operated by Galena Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Skwentna, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled collision with ground in normal cruise after the pilot continued VFR flight in adverse weather conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine airplane en route from Galena to Anchorage crashed in whiteout conditions with snowfall, killing both occupants. Investigators determined the pilot continued VFR flight into adverse weather, leading to a controlled collision with terrain.

Accident Overview

A single-engine airplane on a flight from Galena to Anchorage struck the ground and crashed while flying in whiteout conditions with snowfall. Both occupants were killed in the accident.

Investigation Findings

Official investigation findings indicate that the pilot continued Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flight in adverse weather conditions, resulting in a controlled collision with the ground during normal cruise. The following contributing factors were identified: the pilot failed to follow approved procedures; snow and whiteout conditions were present; the weather was slightly worse than forecast; the operator had cautioned the pilot against using Mystic Pass; and a post-accident drug screen tested positive for cannabinoids and acetaminophen.

Probable cause

Controlled collision with ground in normal cruise after the pilot continued VFR flight in adverse weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Nov 1981 Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair accident near Skwentna, United States of America?

A single-engine airplane en route from Galena to Anchorage crashed in whiteout conditions with snowfall, killing both occupants. Investigators determined the pilot continued VFR flight into adverse weather, leading to a controlled collision with terrain.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Nov 1981 Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Nov 1981 involved a Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair, registration N91083, operated by Galena Air Service, at Skwentna, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled collision with ground in normal cruise after the pilot continued VFR flight in adverse weather conditions.