Casualties unknown

Precautionary Landing in Meadow Results in Substantial Damage (N1453Q)

Mcgrath, AK, US

On July 29, 1982, a Cessna 185F (registration N1453Q) operated by Mark Gruszczynski was involved in an aviation accident near Mcgrath, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot en route from McGrath to Bear Creek, Alaska, made a precautionary landing in a meadow after weather deteriorated. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the landing at late dusk.

Flight Details

The pilot departed McGrath, Alaska at 2200 ADT on a flight to Bear Creek, Alaska.

Weather Conditions

The pilot reported that weather became rainy and hazy. He was unable to land at Bear Creek due to deteriorating weather. He began to divert back to McGrath, but low clouds prevented further VFR flight in that direction. The pilot then circled over an area that was clear, hoping for an improvement in the weather.

Landing

Due to the weather and approaching darkness, the pilot elected to make a precautionary landing. The aircraft was substantially damaged during a landing in a meadow at late dusk.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jul 1982 Cessna 185F accident near Mcgrath, AK?

A pilot en route from McGrath to Bear Creek, Alaska, made a precautionary landing in a meadow after weather deteriorated. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the landing at late dusk.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jul 1982 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N1453Q, operated by Mark Gruszczynski, at Mcgrath, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02702. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.