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Aviation safety reports, made easier to study

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May 21, 2025 · Cessna A185F · N3308S

Trapper Creek, AK

Overview

Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 21, 2025
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Trapper Creek, AK
Aircraft
Cessna A185F (1973)
Tail Number
N3308S
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC25LA057

The pilot reported that, as he approached his intended landing site in a float-equipped airplane, there were overcast sky conditions, light rain, and a glassy water surface on the remote lake. While on approach to the lake he lost depth perception and landed hard on the water which resulted in damage to the float riggings. He performed a go-around and on the second attempt to land the float rigging failed and the airplane came to rest inverted in the water. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

Environmental issues-Physical environment-Runway/land/takeoff/taxi surface-Glassy surface-Decision related to condition

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that, as he approached his intended landing site in a float-equipped airplane, there were overcast sky conditions, light rain, and a glassy water surface on the remote lake. While on approach to the lake he lost depth perception and landed hard on the water which resulted in damage to the float riggings. He performed a go-around and on the second attempt to land the float rigging failed and the airplane came to rest inverted in the water. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time21:42 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftCessna A185F
Tail NumberN3308S
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
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 1Minor
Crew 2Age 69 · Second Class · Minor

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind160° @ 6 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 2900 ft
Temperature / Dew Point46 F / 43 F
Altimeter29.85 inHg
Observation Time22:21
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data