N7176A

Substantial
None

CESSNA 172S/N: 29276

Accident Details

Date
Friday, November 27, 2015
NTSB Number
ANC16CA009
Location
Manley Hot Springs, AK
Event ID
20151201X31241
Coordinates
64.400001, -151.410003
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's decision to depart from an unsuitable, off-airport site, which resulted in a collision with a tree.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
CESSNA
Serial Number
29276
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Model / ICAO
172C172
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
4
FAA Model
172

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
SWIERK JOSHUA J
Address
PO BOX 1126
City
VALDEZ
State / Zip Code
AK 99686-1126
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that prior to departing in a ski-equipped airplane, from a remote frozen, snow covered lake; he prepared the off-airport site by packing down the loose snow. During his takeoff roll, the left ski slid off the prepared surface, and encountered loose snow and water overflow which pulled the airplane hard to the left. The left wing struck a tree, substantially damaging the left wing. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC16CA009