Casualties unknown

Floatplane Ground Loop and Shore Impact on Downwind Landing (N11GA)

King Salmon, AK, US

On August 15, 2003, a DE Havilland DHC-2 (registration N11GA) operated by Alaska Anglers, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near King Salmon, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable landing area, which resulted in an overrun and an on ground/water collision with terrain. A factor associated with the accident was a tailwind. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot landing a floatplane on a small lake used a downwind approach. After touchdown, unable to stop before the shore, he applied full left rudder. The right float struck the shore, damaging the right wing and lift strut. No mechanical issues were reported.

Accident Sequence

A pilot holding a commercial certificate was landing a float-equipped airplane on a small lake. Because of terrain clearance requirements, a downwind approach was necessary. The pilot estimated the wind at about 5 to 7 knots. Immediately after touching down, the pilot determined that the airplane would not stop before reaching the shoreline. To avoid a collision, he applied full left rudder, initiating a turn. During the turn, as the airplane came off the step, the right float struck the shore. The impact caused structural damage to the right wing and the right wing lift strut.

Post-Accident Report

The pilot stated that no mechanical anomalies had occurred before the accident. The airplane had no pre-existing malfunctions that could have affected the landing or the subsequent maneuver.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030904X01461. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.