N706FX

Substantial
Serious

Cessna 208S/N: 208B0426

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, March 5, 2020
NTSB Number
CEN20CA119
Location
Rhinelander, WI
Event ID
20200305X82724
Coordinates
45.631389, -89.481941
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
1
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper decision to continue an instrument approach to landing following a loss of visual reference with the runway, which resulted in the airplane touching down left of the runway in snow and flipping over.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N706FX
Make
CESSNA
Serial Number
208B0426
Engine Type
Turbo-shaft
Model / ICAO
208C208
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Analysis

The pilot reported that upon reaching the decision altitude on a GPS instrument approach, he saw the runway end identifier lights and continued the approach. Shortly thereafter the lights disappeared and then reappeared. He continued the approach and landing thinking he was lined up with the runway by using the runway edge lights for reference. Upon touching down, the airplane dug into the snow and flipped over resulting in substantial damage to the wings and tail. The airplane landed about 225ft left of the runway. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or 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# CEN20CA119