No fatalities

Tricycle Gear Airplane Accident on Tidal Beach During Takeoff

Kokhanok, AK, United States

On August 5, 2013, a CESSNA U206F operated by K Bay Air was involved in an aviation accident near Kokhanok, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and collision with terrain. 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

A pilot reported that during takeoff from a remote tidal beach, the airplane hit a bump, became airborne prematurely, and then settled into the surf, causing the nose wheel to collapse and substantial damage.

Accident Details

The pilot of a tricycle landing gear-equipped airplane was departing from a remote tidal beach. During the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a bump, which caused it to become airborne prematurely. As the airplane settled back to the ground, the left main wheel contacted the water, rotating the airplane into the tidal surf. The nose wheel subsequently collapsed, and the airplane nosed down.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Other contributing factors

Decision related to condition

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Aug 2013 CESSNA U206F accident near Kokhanok, AK?

A pilot reported that during takeoff from a remote tidal beach, the airplane hit a bump, became airborne prematurely, and then settled into the surf, causing the nose wheel to collapse and substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Aug 2013 CESSNA U206F accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Aug 2013 involved a CESSNA U206F, operated by K Bay Air, at Kokhanok, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and collision with terrain.