Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from obstacles during the landing roll. Contributing to the accident was the reduced visibility due to precipitation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that while in flight he encountered frequent isolated rain storms. During the approach there was light rain with good visibility. The pilot reported a normal touchdown and a reduction in forward visibility as the light rain became heavy rain. At approximately 150 feet from the end of the airstrip the pilot saw an 18 inch elevated driveway and applied heavy braking and right rudder resulting in a low speed skid. The left main gear impacted the driveway and the aircraft continued to slide over the road bed. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the left wing, fuselage, and firewall.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10CA257 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 23, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kettle Falls, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Private Grass Strip (none)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 180A
- N-number
- N9104R
- 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.