Casualties unknown

Flight Diverted to Napaskiak Ends in Crash After Windshield Icing in Freezing Drizzle and Fog (N6497H)

Napaskiak, AK, US

On December 15, 1985, a Cessna C-207 (registration N6497H) operated by Ryan Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Napaskiak, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot diverted to Napaskiak due to deteriorating weather at the destination. Encountering freezing drizzle, rain, and fog, the windshield iced over during landing alignment. Unable to see the runway, the pilot added power to leave but crashed.

Background

According to the pilot-in-command, the weather at the intended destination was deteriorating, prompting a diversion to Napaskiak.

Sequence of Events

Upon arrival at Napaskiak, the pilot encountered freezing drizzle, rain, and fog. While attempting to align the airplane with the runway for a landing to the south, the windshield iced over, preventing the pilot from keeping the runway in sight. The pilot then decided to leave the area in search of better weather. After adding power, the airplane crashed.

Conclusion

The accident occurred following the pilot's decision to divert due to weather, subsequent windshield icing during landing alignment, and an attempted departure from the area. The report does not provide a probable cause.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38326. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.