Casualties unknown

Aircraft strikes ground during low pass in high winds (N3467Y)

Cordova, AK, US

On September 1, 1984, a Cessna 180 (registration N3467Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Cordova, 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

The aircraft settled unexpectedly during a low pass at 30 to 40 feet above ground level. The pilot applied full power but struck the ground, resulting in damage to the left elevator and tail wheel assembly.

What happened

The pilot executed a circuit around the landing area before initiating a low pass along the upwind leg at an altitude of approximately 30 to 40 feet above ground level. During this phase of flight, the aircraft began to settle unexpectedly. The pilot responded by applying full power; however, the aircraft struck the ground while maintaining a level attitude. It subsequently rolled to a stop within a patch of boulders.

Findings

Post-occurrence inspection revealed that the left elevator and the tail wheel assembly were damaged. The pilot reported that environmental conditions included winds from 090 degrees at speeds exceeding 20 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Sept 1984 Cessna 180 accident near Cordova, AK?

The aircraft settled unexpectedly during a low pass at 30 to 40 feet above ground level. The pilot applied full power but struck the ground, resulting in damage to the left elevator and tail wheel assembly.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Sept 1984 involved a Cessna 180, registration N3467Y, at Cordova, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40939. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.