Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control during landing, which resulted in a ground loop and left main landing gear collapse.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, after touchdown on an unimproved airstrip with a "fairly strong" crosswind, the airplane veered left. He attempted to correct the veer and applied right rudder and brake; however, the airplane exited the site, and the left main tire encountered a hole. Subsequently, the airplane "yawed to the right", ground looped, and came to rest upright. During the ground loop the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing struck the ground.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC20CA071 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 14, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palmer, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna A185
- N-number
- N360DC
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1973
- 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.