On September 1, 2005, a Cessna A185E (registration N1644M) operated by Casey M. Long was involved in an aviation accident near San Andreas, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane upon encountering a dust devil during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane encountered a dust devil during takeoff ground roll, veered left despite pilot input, struck a berm, and lost its right main landing gear.
Event Sequence
During the takeoff ground roll, the airplane encountered a dust devil. Approximately 600 feet into the roll, the airplane veered to the left. The pilot applied counteractive control inputs, but the airplane continued moving left. The pilot then reduced engine power. The right main landing gear sheared off, and the airplane came to rest on its right wing and horizontal stabilizer after colliding with a berm.
Pilot and Witness Accounts
The pilot reported that no anomalies with the airframe or engine were observed prior to the event. Witnesses informed the pilot that they had seen a dust devil approaching the airplane during the takeoff roll.
Outcome
The airplane came to rest off the runway, having sustained damage including the separation of the right main landing gear. No further information about injuries or the extent of damage was provided in the source.