N8702Z

Substantial
None

CESSNA A185S/N: 18502897

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, April 12, 2018
NTSB Number
GAA18CA211
Location
Sterling, AK
Event ID
20180412X45048
Coordinates
60.539722, -150.869720
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees during the approach to land due to the sun glare.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
CESSNA
Serial Number
18502897
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1975
Model / ICAO
A185C185
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
6
FAA Model
A185F

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
SUTTON AIRCRAFT SALVAGE LLC
Address
13500 E JENSEN AVE
City
PALMER
State / Zip Code
AK 99645-9430
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during the approach to land, the sun was directly in his eyes. He added, the airplane drifted to the left and the left wing struck a tree. The airplane continued to the left, struck more trees, and came to rest off the left side of the runway.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA18CA211