On June 29, 1995, a Cessna 185 (registration N9667Q) operated by Crathern, Charles was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadvertent extension of the landing gear prior to landing on water, due to his familiarity with retractable gear systems. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot accustomed to retractable gear aircraft mistakenly deployed the fixed float landing gear on an amphibious airplane prior to a water touchdown, resulting in damage.
What happened
The pilot reported that he typically operates aircraft equipped with retractable landing gear systems. During this specific flight, he believed he had inadvertently extended the landing gear mechanism just before attempting to land on the water surface.
The investigation
A subsequent physical examination of the airplane confirmed the pilot's account regarding the configuration of the gear system. Inspectors found that the amphibious float landing gear was fully extended. Additionally, the landing gear handle was verified to be in the down selected position at the time of the incident.
Probable cause
The pilot's inadvertent extension of the landing gear prior to landing on water, due to his familiarity with retractable gear systems.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 29 Jun 1995 Cessna 185 accident near Fairbanks, AK?
A pilot accustomed to retractable gear aircraft mistakenly deployed the fixed float landing gear on an amphibious airplane prior to a water touchdown, resulting in damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Jun 1995 involved a Cessna 185, registration N9667Q, operated by Crathern, Charles, at Fairbanks, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadvertent extension of the landing gear prior to landing on water, due to his familiarity with retractable gear systems.
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