Casualties unknown

Pilot Overruns Turf Runway After Landing Downwind in Strong South Wind (N2805L)

Sullivan Lake, WA, US

On July 12, 2003, a Cessna 172H (registration N2805L) was involved in an aviation accident near Sullivan Lake, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's downwind landing. A contributing factor was the tailwind 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 pilot landed north on a turf runway, touching down past the midpoint, and overran the upwind end. Witnesses reported strong south wind with whitecaps, but the pilot noted limp windsock.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that upon arrival at the airstrip, one windsock was hanging limp and there were no other indications of wind conditions. Witnesses at the scene described a strong south wind of approximately 15 knots, with both airport windsocks showing commensurate indications. Additionally, whitecaps were observed on the adjacent lake surface, characteristic of a south wind.

Flight Details

The pilot executed an approach to the north to a 1,900-foot-long turf runway. The aircraft touched down past the midpoint of the runway and subsequently overran the upwind end of the runway.

Conditions at the Time

The airstrip featured a single turf runway. The pilot's observation of a limp windsock contrasted with the conditions reported by witnesses, who noted substantial wind activity consistent with a southerly breeze. No further details about the aircraft or the outcome of the overrun were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jul 2003 Cessna 172H accident near Sullivan Lake, WA?

A pilot landed north on a turf runway, touching down past the midpoint, and overran the upwind end. Witnesses reported strong south wind with whitecaps, but the pilot noted limp windsock.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jul 2003 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N2805L, at Sullivan Lake, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot-in-command's downwind landing. A contributing factor was the tailwind condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030717X01134. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.