Casualties unknown

Pilot Aborts Landing After Wind Shift; Left Main Gear Collapses (N252W)

Big Bear City, CA, US

On September 8, 1989, a Cessna A185F (registration N252W) operated by Downey Construction, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Big Bear City, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE UNFAVORABLE WIND CONDITIONS. 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 pilot aborted a landing after encountering unexpected wind from the southwest, contrary to the forecast northeast wind. During the abort, the left main landing gear collapsed, causing loss of control.

Incident

A pilot conducted a landing approach to runway 7 after being advised by UNICOM that the runway was in use and that winds were expected from the northeast. Upon touchdown, the pilot discovered the wind was actually from the southwest. The pilot decided to abort the landing attempt. During the abort, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the pilot subsequently lost control of the aircraft.

Wind Conditions

The airport manager reported that local wind direction was 'squirrelly.' Wind socks at opposite ends of the runway were observed pointing in opposite directions. Additionally, a dust devil was reported in the vicinity of the airport. The pilot acknowledged that he did not observe the wind sock before landing.

Pilot Actions

The pilot initiated a go-around after noticing the unexpected wind direction. However, the left main gear collapsed during the maneuver, leading to a loss of control. No further details about the outcome of the incident were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Sept 1989 Cessna A185F accident near Big Bear City, CA?

A pilot aborted a landing after encountering unexpected wind from the southwest, contrary to the forecast northeast wind. During the abort, the left main landing gear collapsed, causing loss of control.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Sept 1989 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N252W, operated by Downey Construction, Inc., at Big Bear City, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE UNFAVORABLE WIND CONDITIONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29414. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.