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Takeoff in snow bends Cessna 185

By NTSB · January 30, 2020 ·

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped Cessna 185 reported that, during takeoff from a snow-covered airstrip in Lowman, Idaho, the left wheel encountered a “foot deep snow bank.”

The airplane veered left and nosed over.

It sustained substantial damage to the left wing and vertical stabilizer.

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

Probable cause: The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control.

NTSB Identification: GAA18CA106

This January 2018 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.

About NTSB

The National Transportation Safety Board is an independent federal agency charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States and significant events in the other modes of transportation, including railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space. It determines the probable causes of accidents and issues safety recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences.

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Comments

  1. JimH in CA says

    January 31, 2020 at 5:07 pm

    Another stupid pilot trick…it snowed after he landed, but the next day, decided to not wait until the runway was plowed.
    So, now he has a wrecked aircraft in the ‘middle of nowhere’ , and in for disassembly, transport , repairs, and an engine tear down.

  2. Manny Puerta says

    January 31, 2020 at 3:26 pm

    Google it. A lot of info available. Been enjoying my A185E for 20 years.

  3. JohnBurns says

    January 31, 2020 at 2:02 pm

    InteresTed in the Cessna 185. What does the AirCraft Look like! Not seen one every! Love to see the Spec & Data Sheet on this Aero Plane. What Engine does it Have, Continentail or Lycoming!? When was it Built and how long.

  4. Manny Puerta says

    January 31, 2020 at 10:09 am

    Hopefully, that 185 won’t be totaled. They only made ~4,400 of those terrific airplanes.

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