On August 11, 2009, a CESSNA 206 operated by HOMER FLYOUT ADVENTURES LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Iliamna, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to takeoff towards an area of rising terrain and potential downdrafts with a fully loaded airplane, which resulted in an encounter with a downdraft that exceeded the airplane's climb capability. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A float-equipped airplane struck terrain near a remote lake shoreline after encountering a downdraft during initial climb. One passenger was seriously injured and the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Accident Details
An airline transport pilot was operating a float-equipped airplane under Title 14, CFR Part 91 as part of his guiding business. The accident occurred during departure from a remote lake following a bear viewing trip. The pilot reported that he encountered a downdraft during the initial climb. In his report to the National Transportation Safety Board, he stated: “there was not sufficient lake left to stop and I was unable to climb over the rising terrain.” The airplane subsequently struck terrain near the shoreline and came to rest upright.
Pilot Report
The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. He was operating with four passengers on board at the time of the accident.
Injuries and Damage
One passenger was seriously injured. The airplane received substantial damage to the forward fuselage.
Contributing factors
Capability exceededPilotDecision related to conditionAbility to respond/compensate
What happened in the 11 Aug 2009 CESSNA 206 accident near Iliamna, AK?
A float-equipped airplane struck terrain near a remote lake shoreline after encountering a downdraft during initial climb. One passenger was seriously injured and the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 11 Aug 2009 CESSNA 206 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Aug 2009 involved a CESSNA 206, operated by HOMER FLYOUT ADVENTURES LLC, at Iliamna, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to takeoff towards an area of rising terrain and potential downdrafts with a fully loaded airplane, which resulted in an encounter with a downdraft that exceeded the airplane's climb capability.
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