Casualties unknown

Floatplane Overturns After Water Landing Incident (CGZDT)

Friday Harbor, WA, US

On August 1, 1982, a Cessna A185F (registration CGZDT) operated by West Frazier Timber Co., Ltd was involved in an aviation accident near Friday Harbor, WA. 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

During a water landing, a floatplane's right float rose off the water after touchdown, causing the right front wheel to dig in and the right wing tip to contact water. The aircraft pivoted 180 degrees and overturned as the pilot was exiting.

Incident Summary

A pilot reported that while making a water landing, conditions were normal until after touchdown. As the aircraft decelerated and came off the step, the right float rose off the water, as if riding over a swell or encountering an object.

Sequence of Events

When the float contacted the water again, the right front wheel reportedly dug into the water. This caused the right wing tip to strike the water, and the aircraft pivoted 180 degrees before coming to a stop. As the pilot was exiting the aircraft, it overturned. The pilot noted that there were numerous boats in the area and that he had to sequence among them during the landing.

Additional Details

The pilot stated that everything was normal until after touchdown, and that the incident occurred during the deceleration phase following the water landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Aug 1982 Cessna A185F accident near Friday Harbor, WA?

During a water landing, a floatplane's right float rose off the water after touchdown, causing the right front wheel to dig in and the right wing tip to contact water. The aircraft pivoted 180 degrees and overturned as the pilot was exiting.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Aug 1982 involved a Cessna A185F, registration CGZDT, operated by West Frazier Timber Co., Ltd, at Friday Harbor, WA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04133. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.