SEA95LA148

The pilot stated that just prior to touchdown on the gravel airstrip located in mountainous terrain, the airplane's ground speed accelerated (tailwind). The pilot opted to go-around and stated that during the climb out, the airplane encountered down drafts. The airplane was unable to out-climb the terrain and the pilot maneuvered the airplane for a forced landing into a river. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident. Prior to landing, the pilot was informed by another pilot on the ground of turbulent conditions on final approach.

On July 11, 1995, at 1500 mountain daylight time, a Piper PA-18- 150, N82555, collided with water during a go-around from the USFS Vines airstrip located 50 nautical miles northeast of McCall, Idaho. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the private pilot and his passenger were not injured. The flight had originated from another private airstrip located three miles southwest of the accident location.

During a telephone interview and subsequent written statement, the pilot reported that he was the last of a group of airplanes to fly into this airstrip. The other pilots on the ground reported turbulence and down drafts on approach. The pilot approached runway 27, and stated that just prior to touch down, he felt the airplane accelerate and opted to go-around. During the go-around, the airplane encountered down drafts. The pilot stated that the airplane was not climbing sufficiently to clear surrounding terrain so he maneuvered the airplane to the river where a forced landing was made in the river.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident.