Casualties unknown

Tailwind and Terrain Lead to Departure Accident at Private Airstrip (N731YZ)

Palouse, WA, US

On March 25, 2004, a Cessna A188B (registration N731YZ) operated by Dales Flying Service Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Palouse, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to takeoff downwind resulting in his inability to achieve a positive climb rate and an in-flight collision with terrain. Factors contributing to the accident included the rising terrain and the tailwind condition. 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

An aircraft departed runway 22 with a light quartering tailwind at a private airstrip. Unable to climb, the pilot turned right and opened the dump gate. The airplane touched down on a hill, bounced, and ground looped, damaging the right wing.

Departure and Initial Climb

The pilot departed runway 22 with a light quartering tailwind from a private airstrip situated in an area of gently rolling hills. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft was unable to climb, prompting the pilot to initiate a gradual right turn to avoid rising terrain. At the same time, the pilot opened the dump gate to lighten the aircraft's load.

Impact and Ground Loop

The airplane touched down on a hill at the end of the runway, bounced back into the air, and then landed going up the next hill at the end of the runway. Following the landing, the aircraft ground looped, resulting in damage to its right wing.

Weather Conditions

At 0753, a weather reporting facility located 7 nautical miles south of the accident site reported wind from 080 degrees at 14 knots. At 0853, the same facility reported wind from 100 degrees at 17 knots.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft at the time of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040331X00407. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.