No fatalities

Landing Accident at Remote Mining Airstrip (N8255Q)

Delta Junction, AK, US

On April 13, 2000, a Cessna U206F (registration N8255Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Delta Junction, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing. Factors in the accident were snow-covered terrain, and a short runway/landing area. 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

A commercial pilot landing at a remote mining airstrip overran the runway after a headwind loss, resulting in damage to the left wing and landing gear.

Accident Details

A commercial certificated pilot was landing at a remote mining airstrip while transporting a load of fuel. The airstrip, oriented north/south, measured 1,500 feet in length and 75 feet in width. According to the pilot, the landing approach was toward the north with an approximate 15-knot headwind.

Airstrip Conditions

The pilot reported that the south end of the airstrip was covered with mud and water from melting snow, while the north end was covered with snow. During the landing, the pilot overflew the area of water and touched down on the snow-covered surface.

Sequence of Events

Upon touchdown, the headwind decreased to zero. The pilot was unable to stop the airplane before it departed the end of the airstrip.

Damage

The airplane sustained damage to the left main landing gear attach point, the left landing gear, and approximately four feet of the outboard section of the left wing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Apr 2000 Cessna U206F accident near Delta Junction, AK?

A commercial pilot landing at a remote mining airstrip overran the runway after a headwind loss, resulting in damage to the left wing and landing gear.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Apr 2000 Cessna U206F accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Apr 2000 involved a Cessna U206F, registration N8255Q, at Delta Junction, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing. Factors in the accident were snow-covered terrain, and a short runway/landing area.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20748. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.