Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while maneuvering on a snow-packed surface after landing, which resulted in a collision with a fuel truck.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, after landing, he taxied the airplane to the fixed base operator in order to use the external heater plugs on the ramp. He reported that he initiated a left turn as the airplane approached a parked fuel truck; however, due to snow-packed ramp conditions, the airplane continued straight. The pilot added more power and applied left rudder to get the airplane to turn. The right wing tip impacted the fuel truck grounding wire wheel. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the right wing spar on the outboard 3 feet of the wing with one wing rib exposed. No other damage was noted on the airplane. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA13CA100 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 31, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rutland, Vermont
- Nearest airport
- Rutland - Southern Vermont Reg (RUT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Raytheon Aircraft Company A36
- N-number
- N256DB
- 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.