Probable cause
The pilot's decision to maneuver at a low altitude during gusting wind conditions, resulting in a collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot was on a personal cross-country flight in a ski-equipped airplane when the accident occurred. The pilot reported that he was flying about 75 feet above the ground looking for a landing area on a frozen river. He said that the wind was gusting and that the airplane rolled 90 degrees and he was unable to counter the roll before the airplane impacted terrain. He reported there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC10CA023 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 13, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Aniak, Alaska
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-22-160
- N-number
- N8820D
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.