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NTSB Report
August 18, 2018 · Cessna A185 F · N185MC
Big Lake, AK
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 18, 2018
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Big Lake, AK
Aircraft
Cessna A185 F (1978)
Tail Number
N185MC
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA18CA496
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll to the southeast on a private airstrip, about 120 ft down the runway, the left wing struck some tree foliage. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, and impacted trees. He added that he was watching the right side of the runway for a swale and was not paying attention to the left side of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from tree foliage on the left side of the runway during takeoff due to his focus on the right side of the runway.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll to the southeast on a private airstrip, about 120 ft down the runway, the left wing struck some tree foliage. The airplane veered to the left, exited the runway, and impacted trees. He added that he was watching the right side of the runway for a swale and was not paying attention to the left side of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot did not submit the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time21:30 AKDT
Nearest AirportWest Papoose Lake Airpark (0nm SE)
Runway11
Runway Length1600 ft
Runway Width50 ft
Flight Plan FiledUnknown
Flight Plan ActivatedUnknown
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftCessna A185 F
Tail NumberN185MC
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsContinental · IO-520 · Reciprocating
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 48 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingOvercast 7000 ft
Temperature / Dew Point55 / 48
Altimeter30.25 inHg
Observation Time05:56
Weather SourceWFAC