On August 17, 1998, a Cessna 185 (registration N8482D) was involved in an aviation accident near Susanville, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control. A factor was the gusty wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported a ground loop during takeoff on runway 29 after a strong wind gust at about 30 mph. The aircraft turned 120 degrees, collapsed the right main landing gear, and damaged the right wing, stabilizer, and elevator.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that about 300 feet into the takeoff roll on runway 29 and approximately 30 mph, he felt a strong wind gust from his left side. He was unable to maintain the aircraft heading with full right rudder and right brake. The aircraft ground looped and came to rest on the runway about 120 degrees from its initial heading. The right main landing gear collapsed, and there was damage to the right wing, right stabilizer, and elevator.
Weather and Witness
The winds were reported as 240 degrees at 12 knots gusting to 21 knots. A witness on the airport said that the winds were 'unpredictably gusty' at the time of the accident.
Pilot's Comment
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction with the aircraft prior to takeoff. He stated that he 'could have made a more accurate estimate of [the] severity of gusts and not attempted the takeoff.'
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Aug 1998 Cessna 185 accident near Susanville, CA?
A pilot reported a ground loop during takeoff on runway 29 after a strong wind gust at about 30 mph. The aircraft turned 120 degrees, collapsed the right main landing gear, and damaged the right wing, stabilizer, and elevator.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Aug 1998 involved a Cessna 185, registration N8482D, at Susanville, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control. A factor was the gusty wind conditions.
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