On August 22, 2001, a Cessna 185F (registration N111FB) was involved in an aviation accident near Cordova, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during takeoff due to a strong gust of wind from the left, which resulted in the airplane veering off course and striking trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot lost control shortly after takeoff when a strong crosswind gust pushed the aircraft into trees, causing substantial damage to the airframe.
What happened
The flight was operating under visual flight rules on a grass-covered airstrip. The certificated commercial pilot had two passengers aboard and initiated departure toward the east. Immediately after the aircraft lifted off the ground, a strong gust of wind originating from the left side struck the airframe. This lateral force pushed the tail of the airplane to the right, causing the aircraft to veer sharply to the left. The plane subsequently collided with a stand of trees located near the departure end of the runway.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed substantial damage to multiple structural components. The wings, fuselage, and empennage were all significantly compromised by the impact with the vegetation. No mechanical failure or pre-impact anomaly was identified that would have contributed to the loss of control.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during takeoff due to a strong gust of wind from the left, which resulted in the airplane veering off course and striking trees.