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Aircraft Noses Over After Takeoff from Gravel Site (N710MH)

Chalkyitsik, AK, US

On September 11, 2003, a Cessna 206 (registration N710MH) operated by Dawn E. Foster was involved in an aviation accident near Chalkyitsik, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and his failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an in-flight collision with brush, and subsequent stall of the airplane. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot experienced a left drift after takeoff from a gravel site, leading to a brush strike, stall, and nose-over, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

Accident Details

A commercial pilot was conducting a departure from a gravel-covered site that measured approximately 1,500 feet in length. The takeoff required a correction for a strong right crosswind. Shortly after lift-off, the airplane drifted to the left. During the drift, the main landing gear wheels struck a stand of brush. Subsequently, the airplane descended toward an area characterized by rough and uneven terrain. While the pilot was attempting to gain altitude, the airplane stalled. The nose wheel then struck a large ditch located at the departure end of the site.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane nosed over as a result of the sequence of events. Structural damage was sustained to the wings, fuselage, and empennage.

Mechanical Condition

According to the company owner, there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Aerodynamic stall

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Sept 2003 Cessna 206 accident near Chalkyitsik, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a left drift after takeoff from a gravel site, leading to a brush strike, stall, and nose-over, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Sept 2003 Cessna 206 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Sept 2003 involved a Cessna 206, registration N710MH, operated by Dawn E. Foster, at Chalkyitsik, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and his failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an in-flight collision with brush, and subsequent stall of the airplane. Factors associated with the accident were a crosswind, high vegetation (brush), and an inadvertent stall.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030912X01528. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.