Casualties unknown

Stall During Takeoff Over Glassy Water Leads to Crash (N120TH)

Spokane, WA, US

On August 30, 1995, a Cessna 206 (registration N120TH) was involved in an aviation accident near Spokane, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff over glassy water, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the terrain while attempting to clear an obstacle. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced an extended takeoff roll on glassy water due to float lift issues. After becoming airborne, the aircraft stalled while attempting to clear a wire, resulting in a crash.

What happened

The flight began with a takeoff attempt from a body of water characterized by glassy conditions. The pilot encountered significant difficulty generating sufficient lift for the aircraft's floats to break free from the water surface. This issue resulted in a takeoff run that was substantially longer than anticipated.

Once the aircraft finally became airborne, it was still low to the ground and near the end of the available takeoff area. The pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft to clear a transmission wire located in this vicinity. During this critical phase of flight, the aircraft lost airspeed and control authority, leading to a stall.

The loss of lift caused the aircraft to descend rapidly and impact the terrain immediately after the stall occurred. There were no further details regarding the specific condition of the aircraft post-impact or the outcome for any individuals involved in this specific narrative excerpt.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff over glassy water, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the terrain while attempting to clear an obstacle.

All Cessna 206 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Aug 1995 Cessna 206 accident near Spokane, WA?

A pilot experienced an extended takeoff roll on glassy water due to float lift issues. After becoming airborne, the aircraft stalled while attempting to clear a wire, resulting in a crash.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Aug 1995 involved a Cessna 206, registration N120TH, at Spokane, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff over glassy water, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the terrain while attempting to clear an obstacle.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04395. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.