On July 1, 1989, a Cessna 185F (registration N6305E) operated by Hotchkiss, Lee A. was involved in an aviation accident near Dillingham, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT & A STRONG DOWNDRAFT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A float plane pilot reported making a low pass at 100 ft AGL over a beach to inspect a potential landing area when a downdraft exceeded the aircraft's climb capability, leading to an impact at about 90 kts and a nose-over.
Accident Details
A float plane pilot conducted a low pass over a beach at an altitude of approximately 100 feet above ground level. The purpose of the maneuver was to inspect a potential area for a future wheel landing. During the low pass, the aircraft encountered a downdraft that reportedly exceeded its climb capability.
Sequence of Events
As a result of the downdraft, the float plane descended and impacted the beach at an airspeed of about 90 knots. The impact caused the aircraft to nose over. The front seat occupants later stated that their use of shoulder harnesses probably saved their lives.
Aftermath
The aircraft came to rest on the beach in a nose-over attitude. No further details about the aircraft's condition or the occupants' status were provided in the initial report.
What happened in the 1 Jul 1989 Cessna 185F accident near Dillingham, AK?
A float plane pilot reported making a low pass at 100 ft AGL over a beach to inspect a potential landing area when a downdraft exceeded the aircraft's climb capability, leading to an impact at about 90 kts and a nose-over.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Jul 1989 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N6305E, operated by Hotchkiss, Lee A., at Dillingham, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT & A STRONG DOWNDRAFT.
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