On February 3, 1982, a Cessna U206G (registration N756GF) operated by David L. Sparks was involved in an aviation accident near Moses Lake, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and into a drainage ditch. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A freak gust of wind during landing caused the aircraft to touch down on soft terrain, veer right, and enter a deep drainage ditch parallel to the runway.
What happened
The pilot reported encountering an unexpected gust of wind while attempting to land. The aircraft touched down on the right side of the runway, where the ground consisted of soft terrain rather than paved surface. Following the touchdown, the aircraft veered further to the right and continued its path into an earthen drainage ditch that ran parallel to the runway. The ditch was reported to be between 12 and 15 feet deep.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the incident was the gust of wind encountered during the final approach and landing phase. The combination of the gust, the soft terrain on the right side of the runway, and the resulting loss of directional control led to the aircraft leaving the paved surface and entering the drainage ditch.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and into a drainage ditch.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Feb 1982 Cessna U206G accident near Moses Lake, WA?
A freak gust of wind during landing caused the aircraft to touch down on soft terrain, veer right, and enter a deep drainage ditch parallel to the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Feb 1982 involved a Cessna U206G, registration N756GF, operated by David L. Sparks, at Moses Lake, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing due to a gust of wind, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and into a drainage ditch.
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