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Simulated Engine Failure Landing Leads to Westport River Accident (N114LS)

Westport, MA, US

On August 25, 1998, a Cessna 185 (registration N114LS) was involved in an aviation accident near Westport, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's failure to maintain control of the airplane and his delayed decision to go-around. Factors related to the accident were the flight instructor's improper inflight decision to land downwind and his inadequate compensation for wind. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a simulated engine failure landing at the Westport River, the flight instructor directed a turn that was too quick with a tailwind. The airplane impacted the water twice, eventually coming to rest inverted.

Sequence of Events

Upon arriving at the Westport River, the flight instructor directed the pilot to perform a power-off landing to simulate an engine failure. When it became apparent that the airplane would not reach the intended point of landing, a turn to the north was initiated to set up an approach for landing. The turn was described as "a little quick and with a tailwind."

The airplane subsequently impacted the water. The flight instructor then applied full power to execute a go-around but was unable to maintain control. The airplane impacted the water a second time, cartwheeled, and came to rest inverted in the water.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector found no pre-impact malfunctions of the flight controls.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Aug 1998 Cessna 185 accident near Westport, MA?

During a simulated engine failure landing at the Westport River, the flight instructor directed a turn that was too quick with a tailwind. The airplane impacted the water twice, eventually coming to rest inverted.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Aug 1998 involved a Cessna 185, registration N114LS, at Westport, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight instructor's failure to maintain control of the airplane and his delayed decision to go-around. Factors related to the accident were the flight instructor's improper inflight decision to land downwind and his inadequate compensation for wind.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10882. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.