On February 4, 1993, a Cessna 180H (registration CFZEX) operated by North Coast Air was involved in an aviation accident near Ketchikan, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to a crosswind gust, which resulted in the right pontoon striking the water. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A gust of wind lifted the left wing during takeoff, causing the right pontoon to strike water and the aircraft to nose over in heavy rain and fog.
What happened
The pilot operating a float-equipped airplane reported that difficulties arose during the initial phase of the departure. As the aircraft accelerated down the runway for takeoff, a sudden gust of wind lifted the left wing upward. This lateral movement caused the right pontoon to strike the surface of the water adjacent to the runway. The impact forced the nose of the airplane downward, resulting in a nosing-over incident.
At the time of the accident, meteorological conditions were poor. Winds were reported at 15 knots with gusts reaching 20 knots. Additionally, heavy rain and fog significantly reduced visibility in the area.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to a crosswind gust, which resulted in the right pontoon striking the water.
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