Casualties unknown

1984-09-18: Piper PA-12 (N3269M) — Dadina Lake, AK

Dadina Lake, AK, US

On September 18, 1984, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3269M) was involved in an aviation accident near Dadina Lake, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot drowned after losing control of his floatplane shortly after takeoff from a small lake. Moose horns were found tied to the float lift struts. The pilot did not hold a seaplane rating.

Background

The pilot had been participating in moose hunting activities prior to the accident. On the morning of the event, he successfully completed two flights transporting meat from a small unnamed lake to Dadina Lake, located about three miles to the north.

Accident Sequence

Shortly after initiating the third takeoff from the small lake, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The airplane then struck the water, with the right wing contacting the surface first.

Recovery

When the pilot was recovered, he was found to have drowned. During the recovery operation, divers discovered moose horns attached to the float lift struts.

Pilot Qualifications

At the time of the accident, the pilot did not possess a seaplane rating.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40953. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.