Loss of directional control on wet grass at Minam Lodge Airport

Casualties unknown • Cove, OR, US

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control while taxiing on the turf runway at Minam Lodge Airport, resulting in the aircraft contacting vegetation.

What happened

During operations at Minam Lodge Airport (7OR0), located in the mountainous Eagle Cap Wilderness Area, the pilot was taxiing along the single turf runway. The runway is 2,000 feet long and 40 feet wide. Approximately 500 feet down the runway, a dogleg to the right required a course correction. To mitigate this turn, the pilot lined up somewhat to the left of the centerline.

As the aircraft reached approximately 40 miles per hour, it began drifting toward the left onto the wet grass. The pilot reported that there was no effective rudder control and no braking capability on the wet surface. After reducing power and applying the right brake, the left wing of the aircraft contacted small brush and aspen trees.

Findings

The pilot's actions were impacted by the wet grass surface, which prevented effective braking and rudder control during the taxi maneuver.

Probable cause

The loss of directional control was caused by a lack of braking and rudder effectiveness on the wet grass surface.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-07-24 Cessna 185 accident near Cove, OR?

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control while taxiing on the turf runway at Minam Lodge Airport, resulting in the aircraft contacting vegetation.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-07-24 involved a Cessna 185, registration N477G, at Cove, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of directional control was caused by a lack of braking and rudder effectiveness on the wet grass surface.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20061011X01498. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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