Probable cause
The pilot's failure to compensate for the crosswind during landing, resulting in loss of control of the aircraft and the subsequent nose-over of the airplane. Contributing to the accident was the crosswind.
NTSB analysis
The tailwheel-equipped airplane was landing with a left crosswind. While rolling out, the airplane veered to the right and the pilot attempted to correct with aileron, rudder, and then brake. The pilot stated that when left braking was applied, the airplane nosed forward and the left wingtip and propeller contacted the ground. He stated that the airplane then nosed over. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction of the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA081 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 5, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Alton, Illinois
- Nearest airport
- St Louis Regional Airport (ALN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna A185F
- N-number
- N185KS
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.