No fatalities

Runway Overrun and River Embankment Accident Following Go-Around and High-Speed Approach (N2318R)

Bridgewater, VA, US

On March 27, 1985, a Cessna 182G (registration N2318R) was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgewater, VA. No fatalities were reported. 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 executed a go-around due to excess altitude on first approach, then touched down long at high speed in crosswinds, overran the runway, and came to rest inverted in a river. Occupants self-extricated.

Approach and Go-Around

During the first approach to landing, the pilot experienced excess altitude and initiated a go-around. The second approach resulted in a proper altitude but high airspeed. Crosswind conditions with gusts up to 22 knots were present at the time.

Landing and Runway Excursion

Touchdown occurred approximately halfway down the 2,755-foot runway. Skid marks on the runway were light and extended for about 550 feet. The aircraft ran off the end of the runway, continued across 50 feet of grass overrun area, and then went down a 10- to 15-foot embankment to the North River.

Final Position and Occupant Egress

The airplane came to rest inverted with the nose and wings submerged in water. The occupants extricated themselves from the aircraft without assistance.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 1985 Cessna 182G accident near Bridgewater, VA?

An aircraft executed a go-around due to excess altitude on first approach, then touched down long at high speed in crosswinds, overran the runway, and came to rest inverted in a river. Occupants self-extricated.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Mar 1985 Cessna 182G accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 1985 involved a Cessna 182G, registration N2318R, at Bridgewater, VA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35857. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.