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Aviation safety reports, made easier to study

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July 13, 2023 · Aviat Aircraft A-1B · N460JC

Matanuska Glacier, AK

Overview

Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 13, 2023
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Matanuska Glacier, AK
Aircraft
Aviat Aircraft A-1B (2006)
Tail Number
N460JC
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC23LA050

The pilot reported he encountered downdrafts during landing on a remote gravel airstrip near a glacial base camp known for downdrafts and mountain rotors. He elected to depart the airstrip into rising terrain due to more favorable winds. During initial climb out the pilot reported the airplane encountered more downdrafts than expected. Unable to outclimb rising terrain, the pilot performed a forced landing in an area of rough, rock-covered terrain, and during landing the airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The airplane’s encounter with downdrafts resulting in decreased performance insufficient to outclimb rising terrain.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported he encountered downdrafts during landing on a remote gravel airstrip near a glacial base camp known for downdrafts and mountain rotors. He elected to depart the airstrip into rising terrain due to more favorable winds. During initial climb out the pilot reported the airplane encountered more downdrafts than expected. Unable to outclimb rising terrain, the pilot performed a forced landing in an area of rough, rock-covered terrain, and during landing the airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time15:30 AKDT
Nearest AirportScandinavian Peaks Hut Airstri (0nm)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedUnknown
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftAviat Aircraft A-1B
Tail NumberN460JC
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-360-A1P · Reciprocating · 180
Seats2

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1None
Crew 2Age 37 · First Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind110° @ 5 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point55 F
Altimeter30.10 inHg
Observation Time14:53
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data