On December 23, 1999, a Cessna 185 (registration N70021) operated by Dennis Perry was involved in an aviation accident near Chenega Bay, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area during the incoming tide. Factors associated with the accident were the incoming tide wave, and the pressure induced by the delays encountered picking up the passengers. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An air taxi pilot attempting to depart from a remote beach with two passengers encountered a wave during takeoff roll, resulting in the airplane nosing over after the wheels contacted water.
Accident Description
An air taxi pilot was picking up two passengers from a remote beach site. The flight had been delayed for five days due to adverse weather conditions. The pilot attempted the takeoff during an incoming tide.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff roll, a wave washed across the beach in front of the airplane. According to the pilot's NTSB Pilot/Operator Report, he wrote that he was "too slow to fly, and too fast to stop." He stated that he rotated the airplane off the ground and applied additional flaps in an attempt to take off over the water. However, the airplane then settled, the wheels contacted the water, and the airplane nosed over.
No further details regarding injuries, damage, or subsequent actions were provided in the source material.