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NTSB Report
January 10, 2009 · Piper PA-18-150 · N2553S
Elrosa, MN
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
January 10, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Elrosa, MN
Aircraft
Piper PA-18-150
Tail Number
N2553S
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN09CA130
The pilot elected to attempt a landing in a snow-covered field. The tailwheel-equipped airplane touched down on the main wheels in a "tail low" attitude. The pilot did not initially realize that the snow was too soft and deep. He added full power and pulled back on the stick, but he was unable to prevent the airplane from nosing over. It slid for approximately 7 feet before coming to rest. After the accident, the pilot determined that the snow was about 14 inches deep. He commented that although the airplane was equipped with large diameter tires, the snow was too deep. He reported that there were no malfunctions or failures associated with the airplane prior to the accident. The vertical stabilizer and rudder were damaged when the airplane nosed over.
NTSB Probable Cause
Environmental issues-Physical environment-Runway/land/takeoff/taxi surfa-Snow/slush/ice covered-Ability to respond/compensate - C
Full Narrative
The pilot elected to attempt a landing at a field. The tail wheel equipped airplane touched down on the main wheels in a "tail low" attitude. The pilot did not initially realize that the snow was too soft and deep. He added full power and pulled back on the stick, but he was unable to prevent the airplane from nosing over. It slid for approximately 7 feet before coming to rest. The vertical stabilizer and rudder were damaged when the airplane nosed over. After the accident, the pilot determined that the snow was about 14 inches deep. He commented that although the airplane was equipped with large diameter tires, the snow was too deep. He reported that there were no malfunctions or failures associated with the airplane prior to the accident.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time10:30 CST
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA-18-150
Tail NumberN2553S
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-320 SERIES · Reciprocating · 180
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 27 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind210° @ 4 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point0 C / -8 C
Altimeter30.22 inHg
Observation Time16:33
Weather SourceWFAC