Floatplane nosed over during taxi training

Casualties unknown • Kodiak, AK, US

A floatplane experienced a nose-over on its left float during a taxiing instruction session in choppy water conditions.

What happened

A check pilot and another company pilot, who was undergoing initial operating experience, were preparing for a positioning flight following the transport of a passenger. The crew elected to perform a back taxi within the bay to facilitate a takeoff into the wind.

After the second pilot completed the back taxi and a right-hand turn, the check pilot took control of the unspecified aircraft to instruct the other pilot on performing downwind turns to the left. During this maneuver, while the airplane was pointed into the wind with the engine power at idle RPM, the aircraft simultaneously rolled and nosed over onto its left float.

At the time of the event, weather conditions were characterized by winds from 330 degrees at 20 knots, gusting to 25 knots. The water surface was described as choppy, with white water visible on the tops of the waves.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-10-27 Cessna 185 accident near Kodiak, AK?

A floatplane experienced a nose-over on its left float during a taxiing instruction session in choppy water conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-10-27 involved a Cessna 185, registration N1095F, at Kodiak, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The check pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. Factors relating to the accident were: the rough water and adverse wind conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04626. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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