On October 7, 1995, a Cessna 180K (registration N64337) was involved in an aviation accident near Cold Bay, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to see and avoid a submerged sandbar during landing, due to overcast skies and lagoon bottom color obscuring the hazard. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A float-equipped aircraft nosed over after striking a submerged sandbar while landing in a lagoon. The pilot cited poor visibility due to overcast skies and lagoon bottom color as contributing factors.
What happened
The pilot was operating a float-equipped airplane to support hunting clients when the incident occurred. While positioning the aircraft, he circled a lagoon to evaluate wind patterns and water conditions before attempting a landing.
During the landing roll, the airplane slowed off the step. At this point, the floats struck a submerged sandbar. The impact caused the airplane to nosed over, yet it remained floating upside down in the water. The pilot later reported that overcast skies and the color of the lagoon bottom prevented him from seeing the sandbar in time.
Findings
The investigation focused on the environmental conditions and the pilot's assessment of the landing site. Key factors included:
Submerged sandbar: The primary obstacle struck by the floats during the landing roll.
Visibility issues: Overcast skies reduced contrast, while the lagoon bottom color further obscured the submerged hazard.
Floatplane operation: The aircraft remained afloat despite the nosed-over position.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to see and avoid a submerged sandbar during landing, due to overcast skies and lagoon bottom color obscuring the hazard.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Oct 1995 Cessna 180K accident near Cold Bay, AK?
A float-equipped aircraft nosed over after striking a submerged sandbar while landing in a lagoon. The pilot cited poor visibility due to overcast skies and lagoon bottom color as contributing factors.
Were there any fatalities in the 7 Oct 1995 Cessna 180K accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Oct 1995 involved a Cessna 180K, registration N64337, at Cold Bay, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to see and avoid a submerged sandbar during landing, due to overcast skies and lagoon bottom color obscuring the hazard.
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