Probable cause
The pilot's unstable landing approach which resulted in a long landing, and subsequent collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while on final approach to land she noticed an area of reduced visibility in her approach path, and elected to go-around. On the second approach she came in high, over top of the obscuration, which resulted in a steeper-than-normal approach and long landing. Upon touchdown, she applied the main wheel brakes, but the airplane began to slide along the runways muddy surface. Nearing the end of the runway she initiated a slight left turn, the left main wheel dug into the mud, the left wing impacted brush along the side of the runway, and the airplane nosed down, sustaining substantial damage to the wings.
In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot stated that the accident may have been avoided if she had gone around prior to touchdown, waited for the area of reduced visibility on the approach end of the runway to dissipate, or anticipated the muddy runway conditions.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC14CA064 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 14, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Gustavus, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Excursion Inlet (EXI)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 182A
- N-number
- N2121G
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- 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.