Cessna 170 N3068A accident near Kiana, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper decision to perform a takeoff from an unsuitable surface, which resulted in a loss of control and nose over.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that before landing at the remote, gravel-covered site, he intended to momentarily touchdown to determine the landing surface suitability, a maneuver commonly known as dragging the landing site. He said that after touchdown the main landing gear wheels encountered an area of rough and water covered-terrain, which slowed the airplane’s ground roll, so he applied takeoff power to go-around. The pilot said that the airplane became airborne, but it remained in ground effect, and he was unable to climb. The airplane subsequently settled back onto the site, and the right main wheel touched down atop a shallow stream that was situated next to the remote site. After touchdown, the airplane veered to the right and nosed over. The right wing sustained substantial damage.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC20CA094 for the full record.