Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a landing in flat light conditions, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the ski-equipped airplane reported that during the landing on snow covered sea ice, the airplane ground looped and the left landing gear collapsed. The left wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage.
The pilot added that there was an overcast cloud ceiling with light snow showers at the time of the accident, and that he attempted the landing in "flat light" conditions on "flat terrain."
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC20CA022 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 20, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Koyuk, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 182
- N-number
- N969KM
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- 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.