This January 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Cessna 170A. Location: Ellsworth, Maine. Injuries: None. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot elected to attempt a landing at a private airstrip without permission. The 1,200-foot runway was covered with snow. There was a crosswind from the left during the approach. The airplane touched down near the right edge of the runway, bounced several times, then yawed to the left. It then began a right turn and hit a snow bank and a building.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing. The selection of an unsuitable landing area was a factor.
For more information: NTSB.gov
