No fatalities

Airplane Damaged During Landing at Remote Airstrip (N8624X)

Aniak, AK, US

On September 6, 2005, a Cessna 180 (registration N8624X) was involved in an aviation accident near Aniak, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a collision with brush during the landing flare. A factor contributing to the accident was high vegetation. 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 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot reported that the left wing of an airplane collided with high brush during the landing flare at a remote airstrip, resulting in damage to the right wing and landing gear.

What happened

The aircraft was operating under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight. The pilot was attempting to land at a remote airstrip. During the final phase of the approach, specifically while executing the landing flare, the left wing of the airplane struck high brush. Following this initial contact, the aircraft impacted the terrain. This subsequent impact resulted in damage to several components of the airframe and propulsion system.

The investigation

Examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the right wing, the right main landing gear, the propeller, and the stabilizer. The sequence of events began with the left wing contacting vegetation during the flare maneuver.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Sept 2005 Cessna 180 accident near Aniak, AK?

A private pilot reported that the left wing of an airplane collided with high brush during the landing flare at a remote airstrip, resulting in damage to the right wing and landing gear.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 Sept 2005 Cessna 180 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Sept 2005 involved a Cessna 180, registration N8624X, at Aniak, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in a collision with brush during the landing flare. A factor contributing to the accident was high vegetation.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20051004X01573. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.