Forced landing into river following missed approach in mountainous terrain

Casualties unknown • Mccall, ID, US

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a river after encountering down drafts and insufficient climb performance during a go-around.

What happened

While attempting to land on a gravel airstrip situated within mountainous terrain, the pilot experienced an increase in ground speed due to a tailwind just before touchdown. In response to these conditions, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure.

During the subsequent climb out, the aircraft encountered down drafts. The aircraft was unable to gain enough altitude to clear the surrounding terrain. Consequently, the pilot maneuvered the unspecified aircraft to perform a forced landing into a river.

Prior to the final approach, the pilot had been notified by another pilot on the ground regarding the presence of turbulent conditions. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions present in the aircraft at the time of the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to out-climb the terrain following a go-around due to encountering down drafts while operating in mountainous terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-07-11 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Mccall, ID?

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing in a river after encountering down drafts and insufficient climb performance during a go-around.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-07-11 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N82555, at Mccall, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to out-climb the terrain following a go-around due to encountering down drafts while operating in mountainous terrain.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04092. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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