On September 4, 1995, a Cessna 185F (registration N9222H) operated by Wayne E Cartwright was involved in an aviation accident near Salem, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS AND THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED WHILE MANEUVERING FOR A FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a banner pickup, the tow line entangled the tailwheel and displaced the rudder. After a fly-by, the pilot lost power, turned left to avoid obstacles, and attempted a forced landing. Witnesses reported normal engine sound.
Incident Overview
A banner towing operation experienced an incident when the tow line became entangled with the aircraft's tailwheel during a pickup maneuver. The entanglement displaced the rudder to the right, affecting control.
Sequence of Events
Following the entanglement, the pilot chose to perform a fly-by past the ground crew to assess the situation before deciding whether to release the banner or land. After the fly-by, the pilot attempted to add power for a go-around but sustained a loss of power at that moment. To avoid obstacles, the pilot executed a sharp left turn and attempted a forced landing on the airport grounds.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that the engine sounded normal throughout the maneuver. They also noted that the nose of the aircraft dropped during the turn and subsequent forced landing attempt.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident examination revealed no mechanical discrepancies with the aircraft. The cause of the power loss was not determined from the available evidence.