Casualties unknown

2000-04-04: Cessna A185F (N78DE) — Wallowa, OR

Wallowa, OR, US

On April 4, 2000, a Cessna A185F (registration N78DE) was involved in an aviation accident near Wallowa, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain proper runway alignment upon encountering a wind gust, and his subsequent failure or inability to maintain clearance with a tree during a go-around attempt. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported a wind gust during landing on a private 1,800-foot airstrip, causing a go-around attempt that ended with the aircraft's right wing striking a tree and the aircraft crashing.

Accident Details

The accident occurred on a private airstrip measuring 1,800 feet in length and 40 feet in width, oriented east-west. Trees and elevated terrain were present adjacent to both sides of the strip. A hangar was located on the northeast side of the airstrip.

Pilot's Report

The pilot indicated that the landing approach was to the west. Prior to landing, the pilot noted westerly winds estimated at 20 to 25 knots. While descending, at approximately 10 feet above ground level (AGL) and an indicated airspeed of 60 knots, the pilot reported that a wind gust lifted the aircraft and moved it to the north side of the runway.

To avoid colliding with the hangar on the northeast side, the pilot banked the aircraft left and initiated a go-around. During the go-around attempt, the aircraft's right wing struck a tree on the south side of the airstrip at an altitude of about 75 feet AGL. Subsequently, the aircraft crashed.

Post-Accident Information

The pilot provided evidence of a checkout with a flight instructor in the accident aircraft approximately six weeks before the accident. However, no evidence of a current flight review signoff was furnished.

Probable Cause

The source does not specify a probable cause.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20923. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.