Accident Overview
On August 17, 2025, at approximately 1521 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 140 (registration N89447) was involved in an accident near Shelter Cove, California. The airplane was operating as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The student pilot was fatally injured, and the passenger sustained serious injuries.
Flight Details
The flight departed from Shelter Cove Airport (0Q5), Shelter Cove, California, with a planned destination of Charles M Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS), Santa Rosa, California. A witness located near the airport observed the airplane depart runway 12 and make a steep climbing right turn over the ocean into low coastal fog, after which the airplane disappeared from view. Shortly thereafter, the witness heard sirens and someone calling for help in the water.
Passenger Account
The passenger reported that the flight had traveled to 0Q5 for lunch and was returning to STS. He stated that they departed to the south, into the wind, with the intention of circling the airport and flying over the runway to gain altitude. After takeoff, they made a right turn northbound over the ocean and entered fog. The passenger noted that he could see the water below and that it was closer than expected. Shortly after entering the fog, he described feeling turbulence and stated that the airplane was “violently pushed down,” followed by an impact with the water. He did not remember exiting the airplane after the impact.
Response and Recovery
First responders transported the occupants to shore using personal watercraft. The wreckage has not been recovered.
Investigation Status
The accident investigation is ongoing. The probable cause has not been determined at this time.