Accident Overview
On July 24, 2011, at approximately 1800 Alaska daylight time, a float-equipped Cessna 185, registration N9852X, experienced a hard landing in ocean swells about 22 miles southwest of Kenai, Alaska. The pilot and three passengers were not injured. The airplane was operated as a personal cross-country flight under visual flight rules (VFR), with no flight plan filed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time.
Flight and Engine Event
The flight departed Bear Lake, Alaska, around 1630, bound for Kenai. While cruising at about 3,000 feet above the Cook Inlet, the engine unexpectedly went to idle. The pilot attempted to restore power but was unsuccessful. Subsequently, he executed a forced landing in the inlet.
Landing and Impact
The pilot reported 6-foot-high swells. The airplane bounced off the first swell and then dove into the next. The floats tore loose from the fuselage, and the airplane impacted the water. All occupants were wearing personal flotation devices and were able to exit the aircraft.
Post-Accident Situation
After being rescued, only the tail of the airplane remained above water, approximately 5 miles from shore. No efforts were made to recover the wreckage, and it has not been recovered. The pilot stated that there were no known mechanical issues with the airplane prior to the accident.
Damage
The fuselage sustained substantial damage. The airplane was not recovered, and its condition was not further assessed.