Cessna 185B N2550Z accident near Flat, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for gusting, variable wind conditions during initial climb after takeoff.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, just after takeoff from the soft, snow-covered, frozen lake and while making a slight left turn, the airplane’s performance degraded and she could not maintain altitude. Subsequently, the airplane descended at the departure end of the lake, impacted snow-covered terrain, nosed over, and sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot described the wind conditions at the time of the accident as gusts to 20 knots and variable. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical problems or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC13CA028 for the full record.