Casualties unknown

Floatplane Strikes Bank During Aborted Takeoff on Small Lake (N61556)

Iliamna, AK, US

On September 9, 1984, a Cessna A185F-II (registration N61556) operated by Iliamna Lake Lodge was involved in an aviation accident near Iliamna, 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

A floatplane pilot aborted takeoff from a small lake in calm wind and glassy water conditions. During a left step turn, the aircraft struck a 12-inch-high bank and continued through small spruce trees before stopping.

Incident Overview

A floatplane pilot initiated a takeoff from a small lake under calm wind and glassy water conditions. Recognizing that the situation was marginal, the pilot reduced engine power to abort the takeoff before the aircraft lifted off. During the abort, the pilot began a left step turn. According to the pilot, the radius of the turn was larger than the shoreline of the pond. As a result, the aircraft impacted the bank, which was approximately 12 inches high, and continued about 20 feet through small spruce trees before coming to a stop. The pilot reported the event, noting the calm wind and glassy water conditions as present at the time.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Sept 1984 Cessna A185F-II accident near Iliamna, AK?

A floatplane pilot aborted takeoff from a small lake in calm wind and glassy water conditions. During a left step turn, the aircraft struck a 12-inch-high bank and continued through small spruce trees before stopping.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Sept 1984 involved a Cessna A185F-II, registration N61556, operated by Iliamna Lake Lodge, at Iliamna, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40942. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.