Casualties unknown

Aircraft Stalls During Steep Turn After Takeoff from Bayou (N333WL)

Catahoula, LA, US

On September 13, 1985, a Cessna A185F (registration N333WL) was involved in an aviation accident near Catahoula, LA. 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 pilot took off from a bayou with insufficient distance to climb above surrounding trees, entered a steep turn to follow a 120-degree bend, stalled, and crashed into trees and the bank, coming to rest inverted and partially submerged.

Takeoff and Maneuver

The pilot initiated takeoff from a bayou. The available distance was inadequate for the aircraft to climb above the trees that lined both sides of the waterway before the bayou made an approximately 120-degree turn to the right. To avoid colliding with the trees, the pilot entered a steep banked right turn in an attempt to follow the bayou's course.

Stall and Impact

During the steep turn, the aircraft stalled and experienced an abrupt snap roll to the left. Subsequently, the aircraft struck trees along the right bank of the bayou and then impacted the bank itself. The aircraft came to rest inverted and partially submerged in the bayou water.

Post-Accident Condition

The aircraft was found inverted with its structure partially submerged. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Sept 1985 Cessna A185F accident near Catahoula, LA?

A pilot took off from a bayou with insufficient distance to climb above surrounding trees, entered a steep turn to follow a 120-degree bend, stalled, and crashed into trees and the bank, coming to rest inverted and partially submerged.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Sept 1985 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N333WL, at Catahoula, LA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37788. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.