On August 8, 2004, a Cessna 185F (registration N61609) was involved in an aviation accident near Wasilla, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in a crosswind, which resulted in a runway departure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot lost directional control during a crosswind landing, veering off the runway into a ditch. The incident caused significant damage to the landing gear, fuselage, and right wing structure.
What happened
The accident occurred while a private certificated pilot was attempting to land an aircraft. Conditions at the time included a left crosswind component. Upon touchdown on the runway, the airplane experienced a loss of directional control, veering sharply to the right. The aircraft departed the paved surface and traveled off the right side of the runway.
During this excursion, the airplane collided with a ditch located adjacent to the runway environment. This impact resulted in the separation of the right main landing gear strut from the airframe. The collision caused substantial structural damage extending beyond the landing gear system. Damage was sustained to the fuselage and the right wing structure as well.
The investigation
Post-acc examination revealed that the right main landing gear strut had been torn off the airplane due to the impact forces. The extent of the damage indicated significant structural compromise to the airframe's lower section and wing assembly.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in a crosswind, which resulted in a runway departure.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 8 Aug 2004 Cessna 185F accident near Wasilla, AK?
A private pilot lost directional control during a crosswind landing, veering off the runway into a ditch. The incident caused significant damage to the landing gear, fuselage, and right wing structure.
Were there any fatalities in the 8 Aug 2004 Cessna 185F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Aug 2004 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N61609, at Wasilla, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in a crosswind, which resulted in a runway departure.
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