Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from tree foliage on the left side of the runway during takeoff due to his focus on the right side of the runway.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll to the southeast on a private airstrip, about 120 ft down the runway, the left wing struck some tree foliage. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, and impacted trees. He added that he was watching the right side of the runway for a swale and was not paying attention to the left side of the runway.
The airplane sustained 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 GAA18CA496 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 18, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Big Lake, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- West Papoose Lake Airpark (44AK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna A185
- N-number
- N185MC
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1978
- 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.