Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Involved in Accident After Stall and Spin Near Clarks Point (N3357S)

Clarks Point, AK, US

On August 31, 1982, a Cessna A185F (registration N3357S) operated by Theron John Thorson was involved in an aviation accident near Clarks Point, 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 student pilot flying erratically at low altitude near Clarks Point pulled up into a vertical climb, stalled, and spun into the water. Toxicology tests found elevated alcohol levels, and the pilot had no recent flight experience and was not endorsed for the aircraft.

Accident Overview

An aircraft was observed flying at low altitude near the shoreline of the bay close to Clarks Point. The flight had been erratic since takeoff. At one point during the flight, the aircraft pulled up into a vertical climb, stalled, and subsequently spun into the water.

Pilot Information

The pilot was a student pilot with limited experience. He had not flown between May 19, 1982, and August 30, 1983. Additionally, the student had not been endorsed or approved to operate the Cessna 180/185 airplane.

Toxicology Results

Two toxicological examinations were performed on the pilot's blood. The first test indicated an alcohol level of 0.208%, while the second test measured an alcohol concentration of 226 mg/dL.

Investigation Findings

No malfunctions of the aircraft's equipment were discovered during the investigation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 1982 Cessna A185F accident near Clarks Point, AK?

A student pilot flying erratically at low altitude near Clarks Point pulled up into a vertical climb, stalled, and spun into the water. Toxicology tests found elevated alcohol levels, and the pilot had no recent flight experience and was not endorsed for the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 1982 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N3357S, operated by Theron John Thorson, at Clarks Point, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02706. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.