Casualties unknown

1996-08-15: Cessna A185E (N185K) — Spirit Mountain Aviation LC — Cody, WY

Cody, WY, US

On August 15, 1996, a Cessna A185E (registration N185K) operated by Spirit Mountain Aviation LC was involved in an aviation accident near Cody, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot was unable to maintain directional control with left rudder and brake, and the main wheels drifted off the right edge of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a westbound takeoff on a downhill, private airstrip, the pilot lost directional control, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and damage the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer.

Accident Details

The pilot landed to the west at a private airstrip, using moderate braking to stop on a steep downhill portion of the runway. After landing, he backtaxied and loaded passengers and baggage, then backtaxied further for takeoff.

During the subsequent takeoff roll to the west, the pilot reported that he was unable to maintain directional control using left rudder and brake. The main wheels drifted off the right edge of the runway. The pilot aborted the takeoff but was unable to stop before the aircraft tipped to the left, resulting in damage to the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer.

Pilot Observations

The pilot noted that the wind had been from the west at 5 knots gusting to 10 knots, but had shifted to the northeast. He also observed that the right main wheel had been dragging more than the left wheel as the aircraft drifted from the hard-packed runway onto the softer shoulders.

Additionally, the pilot remarked that when operating at high temperatures and in high density altitudes, more time should be allowed for brakes to cool if they were used heavily just before takeoff.

Probable cause

The pilot was unable to maintain directional control with left rudder and brake, and the main wheels drifted off the right edge of the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06629. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.