Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Takeoff from Sandy Beach with Debris (N9080M)

Chandeleur Isl., LA, US

On February 19, 1983, a Cessna 180H (registration N9080M) was involved in an aviation accident near Chandeleur Isl., LA. 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 took off from a sandy beach approximately 1800 to 2000 ft long with a gradual curve, dodging debris at less than full power. After lift-off, the aircraft settled into shallow water and nosed over, later sustaining further damage from salt water.

Takeoff

The pilot elected to take off from a sandy beach estimated to be between 1800 and 2000 feet in length. The beach featured a gradual curve along most of the available takeoff distance. The pilot reported that debris present on the beach was too heavy to remove, forcing him to steer around it while operating at less than full power for a large portion of the takeoff roll.

Accident Sequence

After becoming airborne, the aircraft subsequently settled into shallow water and nosed over. The exact sequence of events following lift-off was not further detailed in the report.

Damage

Following the nosing over, the aircraft was further damaged by exposure to salt water. The extent of the damage was not specified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Feb 1983 Cessna 180H accident near Chandeleur Isl., LA?

A pilot took off from a sandy beach approximately 1800 to 2000 ft long with a gradual curve, dodging debris at less than full power. After lift-off, the aircraft settled into shallow water and nosed over, later sustaining further damage from salt water.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Feb 1983 involved a Cessna 180H, registration N9080M, at Chandeleur Isl., LA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42212. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.