On October 15, 1986, a Cessna 185 (registration N61438) was involved in an aviation accident near Greenville, ME. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported crosswinds of 20 knots gusting to 30 knots during liftoff from an open lake. The right wing dropped, striking the water, causing the aircraft to cartwheel and sink inverted. The pilot and rear passenger escaped; the front passenger drowned.
Accident Details
According to the pilot's statement, the accident occurred as the aircraft was coming off the step during liftoff from an open lake. The pilot reported encountering crosswinds of 20 knots gusting to 30 knots at that moment.
Sequence of Events
The crosswinds forced the aircraft's right wing downward. The right float then struck the water, followed by the right wing contacting the water surface. The aircraft subsequently cartwheeled, came to rest in an inverted position, and sank.
Occupants
The pilot and the rear seat passenger escaped from the submerged aircraft. The front seat passenger was unable to escape and drowned.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Oct 1986 Cessna 185 accident near Greenville, ME?
A pilot reported crosswinds of 20 knots gusting to 30 knots during liftoff from an open lake. The right wing dropped, striking the water, causing the aircraft to cartwheel and sink inverted. The pilot and rear passenger escaped; the front passenger drowned.
Were there any fatalities in the 15 Oct 1986 Cessna 185 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Oct 1986 involved a Cessna 185, registration N61438, at Greenville, ME.
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