NTSB Factual Report

On October 18, 2003, approximately 1420 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 185 single-engine airplane, N1841R, was substantially damaged following a loss of control during landing roll at the Trout Lake Airport (66WA), Trout Lake, Washington. The airplane was registered to and operated by a private individual. The private pilot and his sole passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The local flight departed Trout Lake at 1410.

In a telephone interview with the NTSB investigator-in-charge (IIC), and according to the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2), the pilot reported that after a normal touchdown, the aircraft rollout was slightly to the right. The pilot stated the aircraft did not respond to left rudder or left wheel braking, but that the skid marks, which were 200 feet in length, indicated the left brake was functioning. The pilot further reported that he then applied heavy braking, and subsequently the right wheel plowed into the ground, causing the tail to come up and the aircraft nosing over. The pilot reported the runway surface was "slightly" wet.

An FAA inspector, who traveled to the accident site, inspected the aircraft and reported that there was no evidence found to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction. The inspector also reported the aircraft had sustained substantial damage to the rudder and vertical stabilizer.

NTSB Probable Cause

The failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing roll. A factor was the wet runway.