Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain an adequate approach path to an unimproved airstrip, which resulted in a hard landing short of the airstrip.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel- and ski-equipped airplane reported that, while landing on an unimproved, snow-covered airstrip, the airplane landed hard and short of the airstrip due to wind shear and wind gusts. The airplane slid on its right side and came to rest on the right wing and right horizontal stabilizer.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot reported that the wind condition was light and variable at 5 knots and was not gusting.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA126 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 11, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Nenana, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180
- N-number
- N2347C
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1953
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
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.