No fatalities

Go-Around Attempt Leads to Water Strike on Remote Gravel Bar

Buckland, AK, United States

On October 9, 2012, a CESSNA U206F operated by Golden Eagle Outfitters was involved in an aviation accident near Buckland, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of airplane control during final approach in gusty wind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach to a remote gravel bar, gusty winds caused a sudden loss of headwind, prompting a go-around. The right wing dropped, striking the water and pivoting the airplane. Substantial damage occurred; no mechanical anomalies reported.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported an accident during a landing attempt on a remote gravel bar adjacent to a river. Conditions included gusty and variable winds. As the airplane approached the landing area, a 10-knot headwind subsided just before touchdown, causing the airplane to descend below the pilot's anticipated approach path.

Maneuver and Sequence

Recognizing the deviation, the pilot initiated a go-around. However, during this maneuver, the right wing abruptly dropped. The right main wheel then struck the water surface, pivoting the airplane 90 degrees to the right. Subsequently, the right wing struck the water.

Damage Assessment

The airplane sustained substantial damage as a result of the wing striking the water. The pilot reported that no preaccident mechanical anomalies were present with the airplane.

Contributing factors

Causes

Descent rate — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Effect on equipment

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Oct 2012 CESSNA U206F accident near Buckland, AK?

During final approach to a remote gravel bar, gusty winds caused a sudden loss of headwind, prompting a go-around. The right wing dropped, striking the water and pivoting the airplane. Substantial damage occurred; no mechanical anomalies reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Oct 2012 CESSNA U206F accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Oct 2012 involved a CESSNA U206F, operated by Golden Eagle Outfitters, at Buckland, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's loss of airplane control during final approach in gusty wind conditions.