No fatalities

Aircraft Breaks Through Ice on Lake Near Nondalton, Both Pilots Injured (N10012)

Nondalton, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On February 10, 1971, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration N10012) operated by Reeve Aleutian Airways - RAA was involved in an aviation accident near Nondalton, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper in-flight decisions or planning on part of the flying crew. The aircraft broke thru ice on lake. FSS had message for pilot on ice condition but the crew did not call the station before landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 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

An aircraft broke through ice and partially sank after landing on a lake near Nondalton. Both pilots were injured and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Incident

The accident sequence began when the aircraft touched down on the frozen surface of a lake in the vicinity of Nondalton. Almost immediately, the ice gave way, leading to the aircraft breaking through and partially sinking. The pilots, both of whom were aboard, received injuries. The aircraft itself was declared damaged beyond repair.

Official Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be improper in-flight decisions or planning by the flying crew. Specifically, the aircraft broke through the ice on the lake. The Flight Service Station (FSS) had a message available for the pilot regarding the ice conditions on the lake. However, the crew did not contact the FSS before landing to receive this advisory.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Feb 1971 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Nondalton, United States of America?

An aircraft broke through ice and partially sank after landing on a lake near Nondalton. Both pilots were injured and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 Feb 1971 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Feb 1971 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration N10012, operated by Reeve Aleutian Airways - RAA, at Nondalton, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Improper in-flight decisions or planning on part of the flying crew. The aircraft broke thru ice on lake. FSS had message for pilot on ice condition but the crew did not call the station before landing.