On May 31, 1983, a Cessna TU206 (registration CGPZP) was involved in an aviation accident near Venetie, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Encountering severe turbulence during the initial climb phase after takeoff in strong tailwind conditions, which led to loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft departed on a downhill runway with a strong tailwind, encountered severe turbulence shortly after liftoff, and crashed into the ground, resulting in total destruction by impact and fire.
What happened
The pilot initiated takeoff from a downhill, uni-directional runway (Runway 17). The weather conditions included a tailwind from 020 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots. After lifting off, the pilot climbed to an altitude between 100 and 200 feet. During this initial climb phase, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence. Subsequently, the aircraft struck the ground twice. Following one of these impacts, the aircraft began to burn.
The investigation
The aftermath of the accident resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. The damage was caused by a combination of factors: the initial ground impact, an inverted slide across the terrain, and a ground fire that followed the collision.
Probable cause
Encountering severe turbulence during the initial climb phase after takeoff in strong tailwind conditions, which led to loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.
What happened in the 31 May 1983 Cessna TU206 accident near Venetie, AK?
An aircraft departed on a downhill runway with a strong tailwind, encountered severe turbulence shortly after liftoff, and crashed into the ground, resulting in total destruction by impact and fire.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 1983 involved a Cessna TU206, registration CGPZP, at Venetie, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Encountering severe turbulence during the initial climb phase after takeoff in strong tailwind conditions, which led to loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.
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