Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Gust Encounter During Crosswind Takeoff Leads to Substantial Damage (N60844)

Kotzebue, AK, US

On September 13, 1982, a Cessna A185F (registration N60844) operated by David L. Chauvin was involved in an aviation accident near Kotzebue, 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 reported that after a higher-than-normal speed crosswind takeoff on runway 08, a gust caused the plane to yaw left, descend back to the runway, and sustain substantial damage.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's report, the wind was from 010 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 16–17 knots. The pilot stated that departing on runway 35 would have caused a delay due to other aircraft. He therefore decided to expedite his departure by using runway 08.

Takeoff and Gust Encounter

The pilot described performing a normal crosswind takeoff, but lifting off at a higher than normal speed. Just after lift-off, he encountered a gust of wind. The plane then yawed to the left. Subsequently, the aircraft descended back to the runway while the nose was angled to the left.

Aftermath

After contacting the runway, the aircraft sustained substantial damage.

No Additional Details

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, number of engines, date, operator, location, number of occupants, or whether any injuries occurred. No analysis or causal factors beyond the pilot's factual account are provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Sept 1982 Cessna A185F accident near Kotzebue, AK?

A pilot reported that after a higher-than-normal speed crosswind takeoff on runway 08, a gust caused the plane to yaw left, descend back to the runway, and sustain substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Sept 1982 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N60844, operated by David L. Chauvin, at Kotzebue, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04201. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.