Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes During Takeoff Stall, Frost Observed on Wings (N1296F)

Naknek, AK, US

On December 23, 1983, a Cessna C-185 (registration N1296F) was involved in an aviation accident near Naknek, 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

An aircraft crashed after stalling during takeoff at about 10 feet AGL. The pilot reported unresponsive flight controls. Post-accident inspection found no malfunctions; witnesses noted frost on the wings.

Incident Details

The aircraft crashed during the takeoff roll. According to the pilot, as the airplane reached approximately 10 feet above ground level, the flight controls felt unresponsive. The aircraft subsequently stalled and impacted the runway.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported that during the takeoff climb, the controls did not seem to respond as expected. The pilot suspected that the controls might have been tampered with before the flight.

Witness Observations

Multiple witnesses observed frost on the wings of the aircraft prior to the accident. One witness stated, "Too much frost for any 185 to fly with."

Post-Accident Inspection

After the accident, an inspection of the aircraft was conducted. No evidence of mechanical malfunction or tampering with the flight controls was found.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Dec 1983 Cessna C-185 accident near Naknek, AK?

An aircraft crashed after stalling during takeoff at about 10 feet AGL. The pilot reported unresponsive flight controls. Post-accident inspection found no malfunctions; witnesses noted frost on the wings.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Dec 1983 involved a Cessna C-185, registration N1296F, at Naknek, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45211. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.