Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing on a snow-covered unimproved runway.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he attempted a touch and go landing on a snow-covered backcountry airstrip, in the tailwheel-equipped airplane. The snow was deeper than he anticipated and the ground beneath the snow softer than expected. During the landing, the main wheels dug in, and the airplane nosed over. The vertical stabilizer and rudder were substantially damaged. 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 WPR22LA071 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 30, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Johnsondale, California
- Nearest airport
- (NA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 150C
- N-number
- N7801Z
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1963
- 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.