Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare with a gusting tailwind.
NTSB analysis
During the landing flare on the uphill runway of the private grass airstrip, the airplane encountered a quartering tailwind gust causing it to shift left of the centerline. The pilot applied corrective control inputs avoiding a ditch; however, the left horizontal stabilizer struck a rock berm. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer and elevator during the accident sequence. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The airstrip was comprised of grass and gravel, and was wet at the time of the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA162 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 8, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Shaw Island, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Shaw Island (PVT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 207
- N-number
- N685S
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1970
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
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.