Casualties unknown

Cessna 182 Taildragger Damaged After Takeoff Roll in Rural Alaska (N5369B)

September Lake, AK, US

On September 6, 1988, a Cessna 182TD (registration N5369B) operated by Dykema, Richard E. was involved in an aviation accident near September Lake, AK. 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 private pilot with 202 hours attempted takeoff in a tailwheel-converted Cessna 182 from an off-airport site. Strong gusty crosswinds pushed the aircraft off track, leading to loss of control and substantial damage.

Accident Details

A private pilot, holding 202 hours of total flight experience, was attempting to take off in a Cessna 182 that had been converted to a conventional taildragger configuration. The departure was from an off-airport location in rural Alaska.

Sequence of Events

During the initial takeoff roll, a strong and gusty crosswind caused the airplane to deviate from its intended path. The pilot reported that the crosswind pushed the aircraft off the intended track early in the roll. Despite efforts, the pilot was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane subsequently traveled down a small hill, where it sustained substantial damage.

Aircraft and Damage

The aircraft was a Cessna 182 modified with a tailwheel configuration. No further information about the aircraft's registration, engine, or other specifics is available. The airplane received substantial damage in the incident, though no injuries are mentioned in the report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Sept 1988 Cessna 182TD accident near September Lake, AK?

A private pilot with 202 hours attempted takeoff in a tailwheel-converted Cessna 182 from an off-airport site. Strong gusty crosswinds pushed the aircraft off track, leading to loss of control and substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Sept 1988 involved a Cessna 182TD, registration N5369B, operated by Dykema, Richard E., at September Lake, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26734. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.