Pilot Collides With Rising Terrain/Snow On Go-Around

Location: Chickaloon, AK Accident Number: ANC20CA041
Date & Time: 04/07/2020, 1230 AKD Registration: N2791P
Aircraft: Piper PA 18A Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

The pilot was landing a wheel/ski-equipped airplane at a remote off-airport site in an area of mountainous, snow-covered terrain, and reported that she selected an area that was slightly uphill. During the final stages of the approach she felt uncomfortable with the approach, so she elected to go-around. During the go-around, she added full power and started a left turn. The airplane subsequently collided with an area of rising, snow-covered terrain, sustaining substantial damage to the right wing, and fuselage.

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. In addition, she noted that the weather about the time of the accident was, clear sky with light and variable wind.

The pilot added that she should have made another practice approach or two to verify the wind direction and local terrain conditions.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov