CESSNA 180

Haines, AK — September 27, 2011

Event Information

DateSeptember 27, 2011
Event TypeACC
NTSB NumberANC11CA112
Event ID20110929X50725
LocationHaines, AK
CountryUSA
Coordinates59.23972, -135.50555
Highest InjuryNONE

Aircraft

MakeCESSNA
Model180
CategoryAIR
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
None1
Total Injured0

Event Location

Probable Cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff in a float-equipped airplane for an undetermined reason, which resulted in the airplane colliding with trees and the shore.

Full Narrative

The pilot was taking off on a glassy water lake, in a float-equipped airplane. While on step, the airplane veered sharply to the right toward the nearby shore. The pilot said he tried to return to the departure heading using rudder and aileron, but the right wing encountered heavy brush, which caused the airplane to turn to the right toward the shoreline. Realizing he was going to hit the shore, he closed the throttle. The airplane received substantial damage to its wings and fuselage. The pilot said he did not know what caused the initial course deviation, but speculated he may have encountered something hidden under the surface of the lake.

A certificated aircraft mechanic with inspector authorization examined the airplane after the accident, and said he did not find any flight control or rigging issues that would explain the initial course deviation.

About This NTSB Record

This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.

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