Probable cause
The loss of engine power for an undetermined reason, resulting in the ditching and sinking of the airplane in ocean waters.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported he was on an over-water leg of a cross-country flight, when the engine went to low idle rpm. Unable to restore sufficient power to remain airborne, he landed the float-equipped airplane in large ocean swells, sustaining substantial damage to the fuselage. The airplane landed hard, and the floats separated from the airplane. The airplane sank, and was not recovered. It is unknown what precipitated the loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC11LA068 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 25, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kenai, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 185
- N-number
- N9852X
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.