On July 11, 1988, a Cessna A185F (registration N4742E) operated by R & M Consultants was involved in an aviation accident near Georgetown, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft while landing on a river with estimated wind speeds of 40 knots or more, which caused the aircraft to become airborne and land inverted. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landed on a river, encountered estimated 40-knot winds that lifted the plane back into the air, resulting in an inverted crash with no injuries reported.
What happened
The pilot reported encountering significant vertical turbulence, described as up and down drafts, while approaching the landing site. After successfully touching down and taxiing toward the shore, the pilot observed the surface of the river water being agitated by strong winds. The pilot estimated that wind speeds were at least 40 knots. These conditions caused the aircraft to become airborne again unexpectedly. The plane subsequently descended back into the river, coming to rest in an inverted position.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the environmental conditions and the sequence of events leading to the accident. The primary finding was the presence of strong wind gusts over the water surface immediately following the initial landing. No mechanical failures were cited as a factor in the aircraft becoming airborne again.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft while landing on a river with estimated wind speeds of 40 knots or more, which caused the aircraft to become airborne and land inverted.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Jul 1988 Cessna A185F accident near Georgetown, AK?
A pilot landed on a river, encountered estimated 40-knot winds that lifted the plane back into the air, resulting in an inverted crash with no injuries reported.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Jul 1988 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N4742E, operated by R & M Consultants, at Georgetown, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft while landing on a river with estimated wind speeds of 40 knots or more, which caused the aircraft to become airborne and land inverted.
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