N4896F

On March 15, 2003, at 1230 eastern standard time, a Cessna U206A, N4896F, was substantially damaged when it collided with a snow bank during the landing roll-out at Cherry Ridge Airport (N30), Honesdale, PA. The certificated private pilot and the two passengers were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

The pilot reported that he had encountered a strong gust of wind during the landing roll, which pushed the airplane to the right. The right main gear went off the runway, and got stuck in the mud. The airplane then pivoted, and ran into a snow bank.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector performed an examination of the airplane. According to the inspector, the nose gear separated, the propeller was damaged, and the left wing was bent upward.

The pilot reported a total of 523 flight hours, of which 150 hours were in make and model. He also reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies.

When asked how this accident could have been prevented, the pilot stated, "Maintain center line on roll-out."

Weather reported at an airport 23 miles to the southwest, at 1154, included winds from 270 degrees at 10 knots, temperature 46 degrees F, dewpoint 25 degrees F, and barometric pressure setting 30.13 inches Hg. The visibility was 10 statute miles, and the sky was clear.