Casualties unknown

Pilot Loses Directional Control During Crosswind Landing Rollout (CFILT)

Roche Harbor, WA, US

On July 13, 1986, a Cessna 170B (registration CFILT) operated by Ian Sutcliffe was involved in an aviation accident near Roche Harbor, WA. 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

During landing rollout in a crosswind, the pilot lost directional control. Full control inputs yielded no response, so power was added and flaps retracted. Control was regained after the aircraft contacted bushes.

Incident Overview

The pilot of an aircraft lost directional control during the landing rollout while operating in a crosswind. The aircraft deviated from the runway centerline, drifting to the left side.

Pilot Actions

Upon realizing the drift, the pilot applied full aft elevator, full right rudder, and full right aileron. According to the pilot's report, these control inputs produced no response from the aircraft.

Subsequent Maneuvers

In an effort to regain control, the pilot then applied full engine power and retracted the flaps to the zero position. Following these actions, the pilot successfully regained directional control of the aircraft.

Outcome

Despite the recovery, the aircraft had already come into contact with bushes located along the side of the runway. The incident concluded with the aircraft having sustained contact with vegetation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jul 1986 Cessna 170B accident near Roche Harbor, WA?

During landing rollout in a crosswind, the pilot lost directional control. Full control inputs yielded no response, so power was added and flaps retracted. Control was regained after the aircraft contacted bushes.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jul 1986 involved a Cessna 170B, registration CFILT, operated by Ian Sutcliffe, at Roche Harbor, WA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34331. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.