Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes During Approach in Strong Winds (N732FN)

Sekiu, WA, US

On January 16, 1989, a Cessna 206 (registration N732FN) was involved in an aviation accident near Sekiu, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of control during the approach due to strong winds and turbulence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost control of the aircraft during a landing attempt on short final approach due to strong winds and turbulence while passing through mountain straits.

What happened

The pilot was navigating through mountain straits during a business trip intended for a coastal destination. During the flight, the crew encountered significant meteorological challenges characterized by strong winds and turbulence. In response to these adverse conditions, the pilot made the decision to attempt an emergency landing at an airfield located short of the original destination.

As the aircraft approached the runway, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The plane subsequently contacted the terrain while on short final approach. At the time of the accident, wind speeds were recorded at 30 knots with gusts reaching 40 knots.

Findings

The primary factors contributing to the incident included the strong winds and turbulence encountered during the flight phase. The decision to land under these conditions played a role in the loss of control.

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of control during the approach due to strong winds and turbulence.

All Cessna 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jan 1989 Cessna 206 accident near Sekiu, WA?

A pilot lost control of the aircraft during a landing attempt on short final approach due to strong winds and turbulence while passing through mountain straits.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jan 1989 involved a Cessna 206, registration N732FN, at Sekiu, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's loss of control during the approach due to strong winds and turbulence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27668. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.