2002-09-04: Cessna A185F — Howard, CO

Casualties unknown • Howard, CO, US

Probable cause

the pilot's failure to maintain clearance of the terrain. Contributing factors were the clear air turbulent weather condition, and the high density altitude condition.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

the pilot was flying to a high altitude lake (elevation 11,300 feet) to aerially plant fish for the State of Colorado. The winds at the lower altitudes were calm. At 11,429 feet, data collected from an onboard GPS recorder, indicated that the airplane performed an abrupt 90 degree turn to the left, and impacted the adjacent ridge. Three other Colorado State pilots, flying the same mission in the area, reported wind shear and moderate turbulence from 11,500 to 12,500 feet. The density altitude was calculated to be 12,350 feet.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-09-04 Cessna A185F accident near Howard, CO?

the pilot was flying to a high altitude lake (elevation 11,300 feet) to aerially plant fish for the State of Colorado. The winds at the lower altitudes were calm. At 11,429 feet, data collected from an onboard GPS recorder, indicated that the airplane performed an abrupt 90 degree turn to the left, and impacted the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-09-04 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N24GS, at Howard, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain clearance of the terrain. Contributing factors were the clear air turbulent weather condition, and the high density altitude condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020911X01588. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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