Cessna 182B N916GG accident near Girdwood, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to land on an unsuitable landing surface, which resulted in a nose-over.

NTSB analysis

Before landing, the pilot reported that he had completed a low reconnaissance pass over the snow-covered runway. While conducting the low pass he noticed tire tracks in the snow and determined the snow was about 6 inches in depth. On final approach, he set the flaps to 30 degrees and performed a soft field landing. The main landing gear touched down into the snow with no issues. He applied additional engine power to cushion the nosewheel touchdown. As the nosewheel touched down, it dug into the snow and the nosewheel “slammed” into the ground. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, vertical stabilizer and fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC25LA034 for the full record.