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NTSB Report
April 12, 2018 · Cessna A185 F · N8702Z
Sterling, AK
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
April 12, 2018
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Sterling, AK
Aircraft
Cessna A185 F (1976)
Tail Number
N8702Z
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA18CA211
The pilot reported that, during the approach to land, the sun was directly in his eyes. He added that the airplane drifted to the left and the left wing struck a tree. The airplane continued to the left, struck more trees, and came to rest off the left side of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Heading/course-Not attained/maintained - C
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, during the approach to land, the sun was directly in his eyes. He added, the airplane drifted to the left and the left wing struck a tree. The airplane continued to the left, struck more trees, and came to rest off the left side of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time08:00 AKDT
Nearest AirportDutch Landing Strip (0nm SW)
Runway07
Runway Length1300 ft
Runway Width100 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftCessna A185 F
Tail NumberN8702Z
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsContinental · IO-520-D · Reciprocating · 300
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 57 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingOvercast 9000 ft
Temperature / Dew Point34 C / 28 C
Altimeter29.45 inHg
Observation Time15:56
Weather SourceWFAC