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Floatplane Accident During Touch-and-Go Landing on Remote Lake (N913SM)

Tyonek, AK, US

On July 29, 2003, a Cessna 185 (registration N913SM) was involved in an aviation accident near Tyonek, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a swerve and nose down. 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 private pilot practicing touch-and-go landings on a remote lake experienced a loss of control during landing, causing the airplane to veer left, submerge the left float, and nose down into the water.

Accident Details

A solo private pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings on a remote lake in a float-equipped airplane. During the accident landing, the airplane veered to the left. The left float subsequently submerged, and the left wing struck the water surface. The airplane then nosed down and sank into the lake.

Damage

The airplane sustained structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The extent of the damage included deformation and possible compromise of the airframe components.

Pilot's Statement

According to the pilot, there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The pilot reported that the airplane was functioning normally prior to the accident sequence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jul 2003 Cessna 185 accident near Tyonek, AK?

A solo private pilot practicing touch-and-go landings on a remote lake experienced a loss of control during landing, causing the airplane to veer left, submerge the left float, and nose down into the water.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Jul 2003 Cessna 185 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jul 2003 involved a Cessna 185, registration N913SM, at Tyonek, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a swerve and nose down.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030909X01490. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.