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Casualties unknown

Engine Failure on Final Approach Results in Overturn After Landing in Soft Mud (N93311)

Juneau, AK, US

On April 27, 1999, a Cessna 185 (registration N93311) operated by Ward Air, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Juneau, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the engine driven fuel pump for undetermined reasons. Factors associated with this accident were the low altitude at which the failure occurred resulting in task overload of the pilot, and landing the amphibious airplane in the swampy terrain… 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

An amphibious airplane suffered an engine failure at about 300 feet above ground on short final, leading to a landing in soft mud with wheels extended and subsequent overturn. No injuries reported.

Incident Overview

An amphibious airplane was on short final approach to land on a runway when the engine quit approximately 300 feet above the ground. The aircraft touched down in soft mud with its landing gear extended and subsequently flipped over.

Postaccident Examination

Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft and found fuel present in both wing tanks. The engine-driven fuel pump was removed and subjected to bench testing, during which it failed to pump fuel. Additionally, when primed and operated, the pump drew air into the system.

Fuel Pump Disassembly

The fuel pump was disassembled, but no blockages, damaged seals, or other sources of the air leak were identified. The exact cause of the pump's failure to deliver fuel remains undetermined.

Conclusion

The accident occurred when the engine quit during the landing approach, forcing a landing in soft mud that caused the aircraft to overturn. The loss of engine power was attributed to the malfunction of the engine-driven fuel pump.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Apr 1999 Cessna 185 accident near Juneau, AK?

An amphibious airplane suffered an engine failure at about 300 feet above ground on short final, leading to a landing in soft mud with wheels extended and subsequent overturn. No injuries reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Apr 1999 involved a Cessna 185, registration N93311, operated by Ward Air, Inc., at Juneau, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the engine driven fuel pump for undetermined reasons. Factors associated with this accident were the low altitude at which the failure occurred resulting in task overload of the pilot, and landing the amphibious airplane in the swampy terrain short of the runway with the wheels extended.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00410. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.