The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions during takeoff/initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control and in-flight collision with terrain. Factors contributing to the accident were the pilot's inadequate weather evaluation, and a downdraft.
— NTSB Determination
During the initial climb after takeoff the float-equipped airplane encountered a downdraft and was unable to climb. Rising terrain and trees necessitated a downwind turn. During the turn, the airplane continued to descend, and the airplane impacted swampy terrain adjacent to the floatplane base. The pilot attributed the downdraft to either the large wildfire-induced cumulus clouds 1/2 mile east of the airport, or the winds gusting over rising terrain from the southwest.
During the initial climb after takeoff the float-equipped airplane encountered a downdraft and was unable to climb. Rising terrain and trees necessitated a downwind turn. During the turn, the airplane continued to descend, and the airplane impacted swampy terrain adjacent to the floatplane base. The pilot attributed…
The accident on 2004-07-11 involved a Cessna 180J, registration N888FF, operated by Thomas Bass, at Bettles, AK.
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions during takeoff/initial climb, which resulted in a loss of control and in-flight collision with terrain. Factors contributing to the accident were the pilot's inadequate weather evaluation, and a downdraft.
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