Casualties unknown

Incomplete Paraplegic Pilot Loses Control After Foot Stuck Under Pedal During Sandbar Approach (N85CA)

Talkeetna, AK, US

On July 26, 1995, a Bell 206B (registration N85CA) was involved in an aviation accident near Talkeetna, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE INADVERTENT RESTRICTION OF THE ANTI-TORQUE PEDAL BY THE PILOT'S FOOT, WHILE THE PILOT (AN INCOMPLETE PARAPLEGIC) WAS ATTEMPTING TO LAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During approach to a sandbar, a pilot's right foot became stuck under the right anti-torque pedal. While attempting to free it, he lost control and crashed. FAA records show the pilot was an incomplete paraplegic with a medical certificate valid for student privileges only.

Accident Details

According to the official investigation, the accident occurred during an approach to a sandbar. The pilot's right foot became trapped under the right anti-torque pedal. While trying to free his foot, he lost control of the aircraft, resulting in a crash onto the sandbar. The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical malfunctions.

Pilot Background

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical records indicated that the pilot was an incomplete paraplegic. His medical certificate was valid for student privileges only. No further details about the pilot's experience or the aircraft were provided in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jul 1995 Bell 206B accident near Talkeetna, AK?

During approach to a sandbar, a pilot's right foot became stuck under the right anti-torque pedal. While attempting to free it, he lost control and crashed. FAA records show the pilot was an incomplete paraplegic with a medical certificate valid for student privileges only.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jul 1995 involved a Bell 206B, registration N85CA, at Talkeetna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE INADVERTENT RESTRICTION OF THE ANTI-TORQUE PEDAL BY THE PILOT'S FOOT, WHILE THE PILOT (AN INCOMPLETE PARAPLEGIC) WAS ATTEMPTING TO LAND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03845. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.