Aircraft accident near Nondalton involving ice breakthrough

No fatalities • Nondalton, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft sustained significant damage after breaking through the surface of an icy lake during a landing near Nondalton.

What happened

During an approach to land on an icy lake situated in the vicinity of Nondalton, the aircraft crashed through the frozen surface. The impact caused the plane to partially submerge in the water. While the incident resulted in two injuries among the crew, no fatalities were reported. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

Investigations into the accident highlighted that the flight crew failed to contact the Flight Service Station (FSS) prior to their arrival. Although the FSS had issued specific information regarding the hazardous ice conditions in the area, the pilots did not receive or acknowledge this warning before attempting the landing. The primary factor contributing to the accident was improper flight planning and decision-making by the crew regarding the surface conditions of the lake.

Probable cause

The crew's failure to communicate with the Flight Service Station prevented them from receiving critical warnings about dangerous ice thickness.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-02-10 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Nondalton, United States of America?

An aircraft sustained significant damage after breaking through the surface of an icy lake during a landing near Nondalton.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-02-10 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-02-10 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?

The crew's failure to communicate with the Flight Service Station prevented them from receiving critical warnings about dangerous ice thickness.

Loading the flight search…