1996-04-01: Douglas DC-6-B — Beluga, AK

Casualties unknown • Beluga, AK, US

Probable cause

The Pilot-in-Command's selection of an unsuitable terrain area for taxi/parking and his misjudgment of the clearance required.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

After landing the Captain was taxiing the airplane to the parking area to off load his cargo of fuel. While the Captain was maneuvering the airplane in the parking area the left wingtip struck a vertical steel building support. The Captain attempted to back up the airplane through the use of reverse thrust. While backing up, the left elevator, stabilizer, and vertical fin struck a steel fuel tank being stored near the parking area. The Captain stated that the parking area is tight for a DC-6 airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-04-01 Douglas DC-6-B accident near Beluga, AK?

After landing the Captain was taxiing the airplane to the parking area to off load his cargo of fuel. While the Captain was maneuvering the airplane in the parking area the left wingtip struck a vertical steel building support. The Captain attempted to back up the airplane through the use of reverse thrust. While…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-04-01 involved a Douglas DC-6-B, registration N861TA, at Beluga, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The Pilot-in-Command's selection of an unsuitable terrain area for taxi/parking and his misjudgment of the clearance required.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05491. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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