No fatalities

12 Jan 2018: CESSNA A185 F — Lowman, ID

Lowman, ID, United States

On 12 Jan 2018, a CESSNA A185 F was involved in an aviation accident near Lowman, ID. 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 directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff on a snow-covered airstrip, the left wheel of a tailwheel airplane encountered a foot-deep snow bank, causing the airplane to veer left and nose over, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and vertical stabilizer.

Accident Details

The accident involved a tailwheel-equipped airplane during takeoff roll on a snow-covered airstrip. According to the pilot, the left wheel struck a snow bank approximately one foot deep. This caused the airplane to veer sharply to the left and subsequently nose over.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and the vertical stabilizer. The extent of damage indicates significant structural impact.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. No other factors were mentioned in the report regarding the condition of the aircraft or the environment beyond the presence of snow on the airstrip.

Environmental Conditions

The airstrip was covered with snow at the time of the accident. The specific depth of snow elsewhere on the airstrip was not detailed, but the left wheel encountered a localized snow bank of one foot depth.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Other contributing factors

Effect on operationDecision related to condition