By THE ALASKA STORY
July 22, 2026 – A Cessna 185 crashed during departure from the Lake Hood Air Strip in Anchorage on Wednesday afternoon, substantially damaging the aircraft and sending one of its two occupants to a hospital.
The accident occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m., according to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport officials.
Both people aboard the airplane received medical treatment at the scene. One was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. Officials did not immediately identify either occupant or provide additional information about the extent of their injuries.
The accident occurred as strong, gusty winds swept across the Anchorage airport area. An aviation weather observation shortly before 2 pm reported winds from the south-southeast at 14 knots, or about 16 mph, with gusts reaching 27 knots, or 31 mph. The observation also recorded a peak wind of 30 knots, approximately 35 mph, shortly before 1:30 pm.
It is not known whether the wind played any role in the accident but the wind appeared to be a factor for other aircraft taking off and landing at the lake and the nearby airstrip. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation and will determine the probable cause.
Lake Hood, located alongside Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, is widely recognized as the world’s largest and busiest seaplane base. It connects Anchorage with remote communities, wilderness lodges, fishing destinations and recreational sites across Alaska. The airstrip nearby is where small planes come and go all year round. This aircraft is believed to be from Port Alsworth.
The two become particularly active during the summer flying season, when its waterways are crowded with commercial operators, private pilots and aircraft carrying residents and visitors into areas of Alaska that cannot be reached by road. An economic study commissioned by airport officials estimated more than 62,000 summer takeoffs and landings at Lake Hood.
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport Police and Fire personnel responded immediately, assisted by the Anchorage Fire Department and emergency medical crews. Responders secured the accident scene and began emergency procedures.
The accident did not disrupt commercial airline operations at the neighboring international airport. Airport officials referred questions about the cause and continuing investigation to the NTSB.
This article will be updated.
