On June 16, 1982, a Cessna U206 (registration N1952U) operated by Ward W Crow was involved in an aviation accident near Dry Bay, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and control during a short field approach in marginal weather conditions with reduced visibility due to rain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying into marginal VFR conditions with rain and variable winds encountered a south wind gust while vision was obscured, resulting in a touchdown short of the runway.
What happened
The pilot reported arriving at the airport under marginal VFR weather conditions. The environment included rain and variable winds that were gusting up to 12 knots. Based on the orientation of the windsock, the pilot determined that landing to the east was favorable due to a downhill gradient onto a wet grass runway.
During the execution of a short field approach, the aircraft encountered a sudden gust from the south. At this critical moment, the pilot's vision was obscured by the rain. Consequently, the aircraft touched down short of the runway and came to rest in the brush.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and control during a short field approach in marginal weather conditions with reduced visibility due to rain.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Jun 1982 Cessna U206 accident near Dry Bay, AK?
A pilot flying into marginal VFR conditions with rain and variable winds encountered a south wind gust while vision was obscured, resulting in a touchdown short of the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jun 1982 involved a Cessna U206, registration N1952U, operated by Ward W Crow, at Dry Bay, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and control during a short field approach in marginal weather conditions with reduced visibility due to rain.
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