Taylorcraft F19 N3570T accident near Goose Bay, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain a proper approach path during landing in dusky, flat light conditions, which resulted in a tree strike.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the float-equipped airplane reported that, during a flight at dusk with high, gray overcast clouds, he circled over a lake and began the approach to land. He added that his depth perception was off, he misjudged the approach, and the airplane struck a tree.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

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

The automated weather observation station located about 6 miles northwest of the accident site reported that, about 23 minutes after the accident, the wind was calm, scattered clouds at 4,100 ft, and overcast clouds at 6,000 ft.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA375 for the full record.