Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that after landing the tailwheel-equipped airplane on a gravel runway, she reduced power and retracted the flaps. The airplane subsequently veered to the left and the pilot applied right rudder to correct the veer. The airplane then veered right, ground looped, and exited the side of the runway. The left main landing gear collapsed which resulted in 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 ANC25LA003 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 20, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Wasilla, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Goose Bay (Z40)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna A185F
- N-number
- N61795
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.