Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing on a snow- and ice-covered runway, which resulted in impact with a snowbank and a nose-over.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during landing on a snow- and ice-covered runway, he was unable to maintain directional control, so he attempted to go around. However, the airplane impacted a snowbank on the right side of the runway and came to rest inverted.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing lift strut.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA157 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 7, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Superior, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Richard I Bong (SUW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA22
- N-number
- N522DN
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1959
- 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.