Probable cause
The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing/takeoff area with an unfavorable wind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot said that he was attempting a touch-and-go landing in a ski-equipped airplane on a snow-covered mountaintop site, which was surrounded by higher mountains. Before beginning his approach to the site, he determined the wind conditions, and then planned an easterly approach into a 10-mph headwind. After landing, he turned the airplane to the north in preparation for takeoff and, as it passed out of a wind-protected area, a strong southerly wind lifted the airplane's tail. The pilot was unable to control the airplane in the strong wind and it nosed over, sustaining substantial damage to the wings and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC11CA011 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 29, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Anchorage, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built GOT ROCKS
- N-number
- N9015U
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.