Casualties unknown

2002-03-14: Cessna 170B (N8065A) — Rainier, WA

Rainier, WA, US

On March 14, 2002, a Cessna 170B (registration N8065A) was involved in an aviation accident near Rainier, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain the proper decent rate on approach. A factor was the trees in close proximity to the airport. 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

During an attempted landing on a grass runway, the pilot reduced power after clearing trees and increased sink rate, leading to a descent too fast. Despite adding power, the aircraft settled and struck trees, impacting terrain 100 feet short of the runway. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.

Accident Description

The pilot was attempting to land to the southwest on a grass runway. As the aircraft cleared the tree line, the pilot reduced power and increased the sink rate. Shortly after, the pilot noticed that the aircraft was descending too fast and added power. However, the airplane continued to settle and collided with trees. The airplane subsequently impacted terrain approximately 100 feet short of the intended runway.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures at the time of the accident. The aircraft's descent characteristics during the landing attempt were described as continuing to settle despite the addition of power after the pilot perceived an excessive sink rate.

Sequence of Events

The landing approach was made toward the southwest. After clearing trees, the pilot adjusted the power setting, which increased the rate of descent. Recognizing the rapid descent, the pilot attempted to correct by adding power, but the aircraft did not arrest its sink rate in time to avoid the trees. Following the tree strike, the aircraft continued to the ground, coming to rest just short of the grass runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020318X00358. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.