Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Go-Around and Forced Landing Following Tailwind and Down Drafts (N82555)

Mccall, ID, US

On July 11, 1995, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N82555) was involved in an aviation accident near Mccall, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN HIS FAILURE (OR INABILITY) TO REMAIN CLEAR OF TERRAIN AFTER INITIATING A GO-AROUND. FACTORS RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE UNFAVORABLE TERRAIN AND WIND CONDITIONS (INCLUDING DOWNDRAFTS). 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot opted for a go-around after a tailwind-induced ground speed increase on a gravel mountain airstrip, but encountered down drafts during climb out, leading to a forced landing in a river.

Accident Details

A pilot reported an accident during an approach to a gravel airstrip located in mountainous terrain. According to the pilot, just prior to touchdown, the airplane's ground speed accelerated due to a tailwind. The pilot decided to execute a go-around.

Sequence of Events

During the climb out, the airplane encountered down drafts. The airplane was unable to out-climb the surrounding terrain, prompting the pilot to maneuver for a forced landing. The forced landing was made into a river.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident. Prior to landing, another pilot on the ground had informed the pilot of turbulent conditions on final approach.

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.