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Aviation safety reports, made easier to study

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NTSB Report

July 29, 2013 · Cessna A185E · N4557F

Kotzebue, AK

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 29, 2013
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Kotzebue, AK
Aircraft
Cessna A185E
Tail Number
N4557F
Operator
Northwestern Aviation Services
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC13CA069

The pilot was demonstrating a confined area takeoff for a part 135 Visual Flight Rules (VFR) competency check from a remote lake in a float equipped airplane. The check airman, seated in the right seat, instructed the pilot to begin his takeoff run 90 degrees from the prevailing wind, and turn into the wind as the airplane accelerated for departure. During the takeoff water run the pilot failed to turn away from the shoreline. The airplane was almost on the step when the shoreline jutted out perpendicular to the takeoff run. He attempted to force the airplane into the air by applying flaps, and pulling aft on the control yoke, but the airplane impacted the shore, bounced into the air, and slid across the ground for approximately 100 yards before nosing down. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the check airman stated that the accident may have been prevented if he had ensured the pilot understood his instructions, or if he would have discontinued the maneuver before an unsafe condition developed.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's lack of situational awareness and failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain during takeoff. Factors contributing to the accident was the check airmen’s inadequate supervision.

Full Narrative

The pilot was demonstrating a confined area takeoff for a part 135 Visual Flight Rules (VFR) competency check from a remote lake in a float equipped airplane. The check airman, seated in the right seat, instructed the pilot to begin his takeoff run 90 degrees from the prevailing wind, and turn into the wind as the airplane accelerated for departure. During the takeoff water run the pilot failed to turn away from the shoreline. The airplane was almost on the step when the shoreline jutted out perpendicular to the takeoff run. He attempted to force the airplane into the air by applying flaps, and pulling aft on the control yoke, but the airplane impacted the shore, bounced into the air, and slid across the ground for approximately 100 yards before nosing down. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the check airman stated that the accident may have been prevented if he had ensured the pilot understood his instructions, or if he would have discontinued the maneuver before an unsafe condition developed.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time18:17 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledVFR
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftCessna A185E
Tail NumberN4557F
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorNorthwestern Aviation Services
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsCont Motor · IO 520 SERIES · Reciprocating · 300
Seats6

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 62 · Second Class · None
Crew 2Age 63 · Second Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind200° @ 9 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingOvercast 2400 ft
Temperature / Dew Point57 / 13 C
Altimeter30.09 inHg
Observation Time20:53
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data