2003-07-19: Cessna 185 — Sinclair Is., WA

Casualties unknown • Sinclair Is., WA, US

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taxiing for takeoff. Factors contributing to the accident were the ditch and the fence.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot was taxiing for takeoff on a crowned grass airstrip which was bordered on both sides by ditches when the airplane started going sideways. The right landing gear went off the side of the airstrip, into a ditch, clipped a fence, and proceeded into an adjacent pasture, rotating 90 degrees to the right before coming to a stop in an upright position. There was substantial damage to the underside of the right elevator, the left elevator and stabilizer, the right aileron, and the right outboard underwing area.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-07-19 Cessna 185 accident near Sinclair Is., WA?

The pilot was taxiing for takeoff on a crowned grass airstrip which was bordered on both sides by ditches when the airplane started going sideways. The right landing gear went off the side of the airstrip, into a ditch, clipped a fence, and proceeded into an adjacent pasture, rotating 90 degrees to the right before…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-07-19 involved a Cessna 185, registration C-FHMY, at Sinclair Is., WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taxiing for takeoff. Factors contributing to the accident were the ditch and the fence.

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.

Loading the flight search…