Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in crosswind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing roll, full right rudder was applied to compensate for crosswind conditions. The pilot further reported that as a turn was made to exit the runway, the tail swung to the right and the airplane ground looped. During the ground loop, the right main landing gear collapsed and the right wing was substantially damaged after impacting terrain.
An automated weather observing system at the airport, about the time of the accident, reported the wind at 300 degrees true at 9 knots, for the landing on runway 32.
The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA260 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 25, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Anchorage, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Lake Hood (LHD)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna A185
- N-number
- N17SR
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1974
- 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.