Cessna U206F N206GR accident near Yakutat, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance during approach in gusting wind conditions to a remote airstrip, resulting in a collision with brush.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he was landing, in gusty windy conditions, on a remote airstrip that was surrounded by trees, and he made a circling approach to land into the wind. As the airplane approached the airstrip, the flaps were fully extended, and he slowed the airplane to about 50 knots. The pilot said that just before touchdown, the headwind suddenly dissipated, and the airplane landed about 20 ft short of the runway. The right wing then struck a stand of brush, resulting in a veer to the right. After touching down, the airplane spun 180° before exiting the right side of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and elevators. The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or the engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC25LA082 for the full record.