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Airplane Collides with Trees After Wind Dissipation During Takeoff (N1987U)

MC Grath, AK, US

On September 11, 2002, a Cessna 185 (registration N1987U) was involved in an aviation accident near MC Grath, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during takeoff, which resulted in an in-flight collision with trees. A factor associated with the accident was a variable wind condition. 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 solo airline transport pilot landed on a water-filled slough, dropped off hunters, and during takeoff, winds dissipated, causing the airplane to collide with trees and nose over, resulting in substantial damage.

Overview

A solo airline transport pilot reported an accident during takeoff from an 800-foot-long, water-filled slough. The airplane collided with a stand of trees at the departure end of the slough, nosed over, and sustained substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage.

Flight Details

The pilot had landed on the slough after an uneventful landing and dropped off two hunters and their gear. During the landing approach, the pilot estimated the winds to be out of the north at 12 to 15 knots.

Accident Details

Following a northerly takeoff from the slough, the northerly winds dissipated, and the airplane would not continue to climb. Subsequently, the airplane collided with a stand of trees at the departure end of the slough and nosed over.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Sept 2002 Cessna 185 accident near MC Grath, AK?

A solo airline transport pilot landed on a water-filled slough, dropped off hunters, and during takeoff, winds dissipated, causing the airplane to collide with trees and nose over, resulting in substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Sept 2002 Cessna 185 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Sept 2002 involved a Cessna 185, registration N1987U, at MC Grath, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during takeoff, which resulted in an in-flight collision with trees. A factor associated with the accident was a variable wind condition.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02633. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.