Piper PA-22 N3321B accident near Talkeetna, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot’s encounter with a downdraft while maneuvering low-level, which resulted in a collision with terrain.

NTSB analysis

While maneuvering a float-equipped airplane low-level over a river, the pilot turned the airplane downwind and it encountered a downdraft. The airplane subsequently lost altitude and the pilot added power to climb; however, the airplane’s float impacted a gravel bar adjacent to the river. The airplane came to rest in an area of gravel-covered terrain, sustaining substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported 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 ANC23LA046 for the full record.