On July 29, 2003, a Cessna 185 (registration N913SM) was involved in an aviation accident near Tyonek, AK. 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.
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.