Casualties unknown

Cessna/Robertson 337 Stalls During Departure from Grass Strip (N6314F)

Eliza Island, WA, US

On October 2, 1988, a Cessna Robertson 337A (registration N6314F) operated by Edwin L. Bond was involved in an aviation accident near Eliza Island, 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

A Cessna/Robertson 337 stalled during a steep climbing left turn after departure from a 1600-foot grass strip in gusty headwinds, descending vertically to the ground.

Departure and Maneuver

A Cessna/Robertson 337 was departing from a 1600-foot grass airstrip under visual flight rules (VFR) conditions. Gusting headwinds estimated at 15 knots were present. At the midpoint of the runway, the aircraft executed a steep climbing left turn. After approximately 180 degrees of turn, the aircraft stalled.

Stall and Descent

The nose of the aircraft dropped, and it descended vertically to the ground. Witnesses estimated the maximum height gained during the climb was between 100 and 250 feet above ground level (AGL). They described the engine noise as loud and constant from the start of the takeoff until the crash.

Accident Location

The aircraft came to rest approximately 400 feet west of the runway midpoint on level terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Oct 1988 Cessna Robertson 337A accident near Eliza Island, WA?

A Cessna/Robertson 337 stalled during a steep climbing left turn after departure from a 1600-foot grass strip in gusty headwinds, descending vertically to the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Oct 1988 involved a Cessna Robertson 337A, registration N6314F, operated by Edwin L. Bond, at Eliza Island, WA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27164. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.