On March 20, 1990, a Cessna A185E (registration N3386L) was involved in an aviation accident near Alexander Lake, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: DARKNESS AND TREES IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft lost engine power shortly after beginning a descent, resulting in a nighttime collision with trees during an emergency landing. The cause of the power loss was not verified, though fuel system ice was considered but deemed unlikely given ambient conditions. The aircraft sustained additional damage when it was released from a helicopter sling during recovery.
Loss of Power and Emergency Landing
Shortly after the pilot initiated a descent, the engine lost power. The aircraft subsequently struck trees while attempting an emergency landing at night. Investigators were unable to determine a verified reason for the power loss. The possibility of ice in the fuel system was considered; however, the ambient temperature and dew point were 8°C and 0°C, respectively, which were not conducive to carburetor ice formation.
Post-Accident Damage During Recovery
Following the accident, the aircraft sustained additional damage during recovery operations. While being lifted by a helicopter sling, the aircraft began to swing wildly. The sling load had to be released from an altitude of approximately 300 feet above ground level, causing further damage to the aircraft.
What happened in the 20 Mar 1990 Cessna A185E accident near Alexander Lake, AK?
An aircraft lost engine power shortly after beginning a descent, resulting in a nighttime collision with trees during an emergency landing. The cause of the power loss was not verified, though fuel system ice was considered but deemed unlikely given ambient conditions. The aircraft sustained additional damage when it…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Mar 1990 involved a Cessna A185E, registration N3386L, at Alexander Lake, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: DARKNESS AND TREES IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA.
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