On October 9, 2005, a Cessna 206 (registration N4447Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Seward, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, which resulted in an on ground encounter with terrain, and subsequent loss of control while landing. A factor associated with the accident was a crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A commercial pilot landing a nose wheel-equipped airplane on a gravel off-airport site in a left crosswind struck rocks, collapsing the nose wheel and damaging both wings. No preaccident mechanical issues were found.
Accident Overview
During a 14 CFR Part 91 positioning flight, a commercial pilot was landing a nose wheel-equipped airplane on a gravel-covered off-airport site. A prevailing left crosswind was present. The pilot reported that during the landing, he inadvertently allowed the airplane to touch down to the right of the intended landing site. The right wing and nose wheel subsequently struck rock-covered terrain.
Sequence of Events
Upon striking the rocks, the nose wheel collapsed. The airplane then pivoted to the right, causing the left wing to strike the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.