Casualties unknown

Pilot Accidentally Left Flaps Down During Off-Airport Landing Attempt (N1498F)

Inchelium, WA, US

On May 12, 1983, a Cessna 172H (registration N1498F) was involved in an aviation accident near Inchelium, 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

A pilot attempting to land on a dirt road experienced a loss of directional control at low altitude, then executed a go-around but failed to clear trees and terrain, resulting in aircraft damage. The pilot later reported accidentally leaving the flaps partially extended.

Accident Details

The intended landing area was a dirt road approximately 1,500 feet in length. After performing a low pass to inspect the area, the pilot initiated an approach over trees to land. On the first approach, the aircraft was too high, prompting a go-around. On the third pass, the pilot applied full flaps.

According to the pilot, when the aircraft was about 10 feet above ground level (AGL), it was blown off the centerline of the landing area. The pilot elected to go around when the airplane was approximately one-half to two-thirds down the intended landing area.

Outcome

The aircraft was unable to clear 60-foot trees and high terrain at the end of the road. During the go-around, it struck trees and then impacted the ground, sustaining damage.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated that after the incident, he realized he had accidentally left the flaps extended approximately 10 to 15 degrees downward.

Environmental Conditions

The elevation of the crash site was about 2,600 feet, and the temperature was approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 May 1983 Cessna 172H accident near Inchelium, WA?

A pilot attempting to land on a dirt road experienced a loss of directional control at low altitude, then executed a go-around but failed to clear trees and terrain, resulting in aircraft damage. The pilot later reported accidentally leaving the flaps partially extended.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 May 1983 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N1498F, at Inchelium, WA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43146. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.