PIPER PA22
Ruby, AK — February 16, 2017
Event Information
| Date | February 16, 2017 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA17CA187 |
| Event ID | 20170314X64829 |
| Location | Ruby, AK |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 65.13611, -153.53944 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | PA22 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in flat light conditions on a hard-packed snow-covered landing area.
Full Narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel, ski-equipped airplane reported that while landing off airport in flat light conditions, he was unable to maintain a good visual reference of the hardpacked snow covered landing area. After touchdown, the airplane drifted off the hardpacked snow and the left ski sunk in softer snow. He increased power and attempted to recover with "hard right control" with no prevail. The airplane struck a snow-covered tank with the left ski.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left-wing lift strut.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.