Floatplane excursion during landing in harbor

Casualties unknown • Whittier, AK, US

A float-equipped aircraft carrying five passengers struck a beach area after an unexpected wind gust caused the pilot to lose directional control during a water landing.

What happened

A charter flight was transporting five passengers to a remote cabin when the pilot decided to land in a small harbor adjacent to an ocean channel due to large ocean swells present in the channel.

During the landing sequence, the aircraft encountered a tailwind as it reached the end of its runout, which extended the required water run. As the airplane traveled abeam a break in the shoreline at the entrance of the harbor, it was struck by an unexpected gust of wind originating from the right. This gust caused the aircraft to begin turning toward the right. Despite all attempts by the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft, the plane ultimately struck a beach area located at the north end of the harbor.

Probable cause

An unexpected gust of wind from the right caused the aircraft to veer off course during landing, leading to an impact with a beach area.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-09-17 DE Havilland DHC2 accident near Whittier, AK?

A float-equipped aircraft carrying five passengers struck a beach area after an unexpected wind gust caused the pilot to lose directional control during a water landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-09-17 involved a DE Havilland DHC2, registration N1433Z, operated by Rust's Flying Service, at Whittier, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An unexpected gust of wind from the right caused the aircraft to veer off course during landing, leading to an impact with a beach area.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02171. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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