2005-09-12: Cessna 185F — Brooks Range Aviation — Bettles, AK

Casualties unknown • Bettles, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a gusty crosswind, which resulted in a loss of control and an inadvertent ground-loop during the landing roll. Factors associated with the accident were the ground-loop and gusts.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The airline transport certificated pilot was conducting a 14 CFR Part 135 on-demand passenger flight in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. The pilot said he flew over the airstrip, and the wind sock indicated a strong right crosswind. As the airplane slowed during the landing roll, he said he lost rudder authority, and the airplane ground-looped to the right. He said the left wing received structural damage when it struck the runway following the collapse of the main landing gear. The pilot said there were no known mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-09-12 Cessna 185F accident near Bettles, AK?

The airline transport certificated pilot was conducting a 14 CFR Part 135 on-demand passenger flight in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. The pilot said he flew over the airstrip, and the wind sock indicated a strong right crosswind. As the airplane slowed during the landing roll, he said he lost rudder authority, and…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-09-12 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N58316, operated by Brooks Range Aviation, at Bettles, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a gusty crosswind, which resulted in a loss of control and an inadvertent ground-loop during the landing roll. Factors associated with the accident were the ground-loop and gusts.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20051109X01812. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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