Probable cause
The pilot's decision to take off in a variable wind, resulting in a shallow climb and collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was taking off in variable wind conditions from a pond in his float-equipped airplane. He stated that, shortly after takeoff, the wind shifted and the airplane began a descent that he was unable to stop. The airplane passed the shoreline and descended onto the ground, where it nosed over and sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot indicated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident and that he should have waited for a more favorable wind.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC11CA083 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 20, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Igiugig, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180A
- N-number
- N26CZ
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.