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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Departs Runway During Landing Roll in Heavy Rain (N9481F)

Naknek, AK, US

On July 22, 1997, a Cessna 208 (registration N9481F) operated by Peninsula Airways Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Naknek, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in heavy rain, which resulted in the right wing striking brush and trees off the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 10 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

During a landing attempt in heavy rain with reduced visibility, the aircraft drifted to the right during the rollout and struck vegetation before leaving the paved surface.

What happened

The flight was proceeding on short final approach for landing when the airplane encountered heavy precipitation. The intense rain significantly reduced forward visibility for the pilot. Despite the degraded visual conditions, the decision was made to continue the landing.

As the aircraft touched down and began the landing roll, it drifted toward the right side of the runway. The right wing subsequently contacted brush and trees located just off the pavement. This impact caused the airplane to depart from the right side of the 1,700-foot-long by 50-foot-wide runway.

The investigation

The factual narrative indicates that the primary issue occurred during the landing roll phase. The aircraft was unable to maintain lateral alignment with the runway centerline while operating in heavy rain conditions.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in heavy rain, which resulted in the right wing striking brush and trees off the runway.

Related events

Same aircraft family

Same operator

All Cessna 208 Caravan accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jul 1997 Cessna 208 accident near Naknek, AK?

During a landing attempt in heavy rain with reduced visibility, the aircraft drifted to the right during the rollout and struck vegetation before leaving the paved surface.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jul 1997 involved a Cessna 208, registration N9481F, operated by Peninsula Airways Inc., at Naknek, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in heavy rain, which resulted in the right wing striking brush and trees off the runway.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08282. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.