Pilot Debrief

Champion 7GCAA near Sterling, AK — 2020-03-03

Final reportANC20CA029
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Date
2020-03-03
Location
Sterling, AK, USA
Airport
88AK
Aircraft
Champion 7GCAA
Registration
N9632S
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain altitude/clearance during approach, which resulted in the airplane impacting an area of deep snow. A factor associated with the accident was flat light conditions.

NTSB narrative

In her written statement the pilot reported that while landing at a remote snow-covered airstrip, she inadvertently touched down about 20 ft short, and into an area of deep powder snow. The airplane subsequently nosed over, sustaining substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. Additionally, the pilot noted that flat light conditions made it very difficult to discern any topographical features of the airstrip and snow-covered terrain. The pilot did not submit a Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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