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Downdraft Forces Aircraft into Hillside During Low-Altitude Search Flight (N82905)

Koliganek, AK, US

On September 18, 2006, a Piper PA-18 (registration N82905) operated by Alaskan Adventures Lodge was involved in an aviation accident near Koliganek, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance from rising terrain while maneuvering at a low altitude, which resulted in an in-flight collision with terrain. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot searching for campsites from low altitude over rising terrain encountered a powerful downdraft that forced the airplane into a brush-covered hillside, resulting in substantial damage but no injuries.

Incident Overview

A commercial certificated pilot was conducting a low-altitude flight over rising terrain as part of a Title 14, CFR Part 91 business operation. The purpose of the flight was to search for suitable locations to deploy a tent camp in support of a lodge operation.

Sequence of Events

While approaching a ridgeline, the pilot reported that a powerful downdraft forced the airplane into a brush-covered hillside. The pilot stated that neither he nor the sole passenger were injured during the event.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to its wings and fuselage structure as a result of the impact with the terrain.

Mechanical Condition

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or engine configuration were specified in the report.

Controlled flight into terrainWeather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Sept 2006 Piper PA-18 accident near Koliganek, AK?

A commercial pilot searching for campsites from low altitude over rising terrain encountered a powerful downdraft that forced the airplane into a brush-covered hillside, resulting in substantial damage but no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Sept 2006 Piper PA-18 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Sept 2006 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N82905, operated by Alaskan Adventures Lodge, at Koliganek, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance from rising terrain while maneuvering at a low altitude, which resulted in an in-flight collision with terrain. Factors associated with the accident were a downdraft, the pilot's intentional low altitude flight, and his inadequate weather evaluation.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20061004X01446. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.