Event Summary
A pilot flying east along the Alsek River on the south side of the Alsek Glacier while climbing to 6,200 ft decided to reverse course because low clouds blocked the intended route. During a left turn with one notch of flaps set, the engine began to lose power. The pilot advanced the mixture, propeller, and throttle controls, but power did not increase. Switching the fuel selector from the right to the left main tank and turning on the boost pump also failed to restore power. The aircraft continued to lose altitude, and completing the turn became impossible due to terrain. The pilot attempted to cross the glacier and land on a solid stretch of ice, but insufficient altitude led to a crash.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot's report, the departure proceeded east along the Alsek River and the south side of the Alsek Glacier while climbing. After deciding the planned route was blocked by low clouds, a left turn was initiated with one notch of flaps. Shortly after, the engine lost power. Despite advancing mixture, propeller, and throttle, there was no power increase. The fuel selector was moved from the right to the left main tank, and the boost pump was turned on. The aircraft continued losing altitude, and the turn could not be continued due to terrain. The pilot then tried to cross the glacier for a landing on solid ice, but insufficient altitude caused the crash.
Engine Examination
A subsequent examination and test run of the engine revealed no discrepancies. The engine operated normally during the test, and no mechanical issues were identified.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was determined by the investigation.