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NTSB Report
January 5, 2013 · Cessna A185E · N4538F
Skwentna, AK
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
January 5, 2013
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Skwentna, AK
Aircraft
Cessna A185E
Tail Number
N4538F
Operator
William a Barnes
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC13CA020
The pilot of the wheel/ski-equipped airplane landed on a remote, frozen, snow-covered lake. While taxiing to park, the right wheel/ski struck an area of ice overflow that was covered by snow. During the collision, the axle bolts on the right wheel/ski broke, which pivoted the airplane to the right, and the right wing struck the snow-covered ice. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. In a written statement, the pilot reported that flat light conditions on the snow-covered lake contributed to his inability to see the ice overflow.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a main landing gear collapse.
Full Narrative
The pilot of the wheel/ski-equipped airplane landed on a remote frozen snow-covered lake. While taxiing to parking, the right wheel/ski struck an area of ice overflow that was covered by snow. During the collision, the axle bolts on the right wheel/ski broke, which pivoted the airplane to the right, and the right wing struck the snow-covered ice. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. Other than the broken axle bolts, the pilot reported no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. In his written statement to the NTSB, the pilot reported that flat light conditions on the snow-covered lake contributed to his inability to see the ice overflow.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time07:30 AKST
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledVFR
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftCessna A185E
Tail NumberN4538F
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorWilliam a Barnes
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsCont Motor · IO 520 SERIES · Reciprocating · 300
Seats6
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 64 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingOvercast 2500 ft
Temperature / Dew Point0 C / 0 C
Altimeter0
Weather SourcePILO