Casualties unknown

2003-07-19: Cessna 185 (C-FHMY) — Sinclair Is., WA

Sinclair Is., WA, US

On July 19, 2003, a Cessna 185 (registration C-FHMY) was involved in an aviation accident near Sinclair Is., WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taxiing for takeoff. Factors contributing to the accident were the ditch and the fence. 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

A pilot taxiing on a crowned grass airstrip with bordering ditches lost directional control. The right landing gear entered a ditch, struck a fence, and the aircraft rotated before stopping upright, causing substantial damage to multiple surfaces.

Incident Overview

During taxi for takeoff on a crowned grass airstrip, the pilot lost directional control when the airplane began moving sideways. The airstrip was bordered on both sides by ditches.

Sequence of Events

The right landing gear departed the edge of the airstrip and entered a ditch. The aircraft then struck a fence before proceeding into an adjacent pasture. During this excursion, the airplane rotated 90 degrees to the right before coming to a stop in an upright position.

Damage Assessment

Substantial damage was sustained to the underside of the right elevator, the left elevator and stabilizer, the right aileron, and the right outboard underwing area.

Conclusion

The incident occurred during taxi operations on a grass airstrip with geometric features that contributed to the loss of directional control and subsequent damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030729X01217. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.