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Casualties unknown

Amphibious Aircraft Strikes Tree During Canal Landing Attempt (N4691E)

Gibson, LA, US

On April 29, 1985, a Cessna A185F (registration N4691E) was involved in an aviation accident near Gibson, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control during the landing roll on a narrow waterway, resulting in the left wing striking a tree on the bank due to excessive speed and distance. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An amphibious aircraft sustained substantial damage after colliding with a tree on the bank of an oil field service canal during a landing maneuver.

What happened

The incident occurred when an amphibious aircraft experienced significant structural damage following a collision with a tree situated on the bank of an oil field service canal. The event took place during the landing phase of the flight operation.

According to the pilot's account, the approach and touchdown were executed with excessive speed and distance down the waterway. This resulted in the aircraft being unable to complete the necessary steering adjustments required for the second half of an 'S' turn maneuver within the confined canal space. Consequently, the left wing struck a tree located on the embankment.

The investigation

The pilot provided a statement regarding the circumstances leading to the accident. He confirmed that he landed long and fast, which compromised his ability to negotiate the second half of an 'S' turn in the canal. As a result of this inability to complete the turn, the left wing subsequently struck a tree on the bank.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was the pilot's decision to land with excessive speed and distance, preventing the execution of the required turning maneuver. This led directly to the aircraft leaving the waterway and impacting terrain.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control during the landing roll on a narrow waterway, resulting in the left wing striking a tree on the bank due to excessive speed and distance.
Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Apr 1985 Cessna A185F accident near Gibson, LA?

An amphibious aircraft sustained substantial damage after colliding with a tree on the bank of an oil field service canal during a landing maneuver.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Apr 1985 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N4691E, at Gibson, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain control during the landing roll on a narrow waterway, resulting in the left wing striking a tree on the bank due to excessive speed and distance.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36200. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.