Seaplane strikes lakeshore and moored aircraft during aborted takeoff

Casualties unknown • Anchorage, AK, US

A commercial pilot attempted to abort a takeoff run on glassy water, resulting in the aircraft striking a lakeshore and an unoccupied Cessna 185.

What happened

During a southeasterly takeoff run using the southeast water lane, the pilot of a seaplane noted that acceleration was slower than normal due to glassy water conditions. As the aircraft approached the end of the water lane, just before reaching airborne status, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff attempt.

Upon closing the throttle, the aircraft remained on the step longer than the pilot had anticipated. This extended planing phase caused the airplane to subsequently strike the lakeshore and a moored, unoccupied Cessna 185. There were no injuries reported in the accident.

The investigation

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies with the aircraft prior to the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to abort the takeoff run while experiencing glassy water conditions, which caused the aircraft to remain on the step longer than expected and strike the lakeshore and a moored aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-10-08 Cessna 180 accident near Anchorage, AK?

A commercial pilot attempted to abort a takeoff run on glassy water, resulting in the aircraft striking a lakeshore and an unoccupied Cessna 185.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-10-08 involved a Cessna 180, registration N9306C, operated by Kent D. Peterson, at Anchorage, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to abort the takeoff run while experiencing glassy water conditions, which caused the aircraft to remain on the step longer than expected and strike the lakeshore and a moored aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22096. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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