Overview
A Cessna 180A floatplane (N94259) was involved in a takeoff incident on a remote lake, which subsequently led to a rescue attempt by a Bell 206B helicopter (N84TA) that ended in its own crash. The events unfolded after the Cessna pilot had deplaned two hunters and prepared for departure.
Sequence of Events
The pilot of the Cessna 180A initiated a takeoff run from the lake. The lake surface exhibited choppy waves approximately 3 to 4 feet high, generated by windy conditions from a nearby glacier. The estimated wind speed was around 30 knots. During the takeoff run, the airplane's floats experienced several hard impacts from waves that washed over the top of the floats. In response, the pilot aborted the takeoff and taxied on the lake in search of calmer conditions. Subsequently, the left float began to fill with water, causing the airplane to roll over onto its back. The aircraft did not sink immediately at that time. The pilot was able to exit the airplane and climb onto the inverted floats.
Rescue Attempt
A Bell 206B helicopter (N84TA) arrived on scene to rescue the Cessna pilot. While hovering near the downed airplane, the helicopter entered a dynamic rollover condition and crashed. The Cessna pilot sustained serious injuries during this rescue operation. The Cessna 180 subsequently sank after the rescue attempt concluded.
Aftermath
The Cessna 180A was lost after sinking. The helicopter crash is documented separately (see ID ANC95TA166 for details). The incident highlights the challenges of operating in remote lake environments with high winds and rough water conditions.