Casualties unknown

1996-04-27: DE Havilland DHC-6 (N716NC) — Freefall Express — Raeford, NC

Raeford, NC, US

On April 27, 1996, a DE Havilland DHC-6 (registration N716NC) operated by Freefall Express was involved in an aviation accident near Raeford, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the passenger to follow the instructions of ground personnel as she exited the aircraft. 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

After a parachute drop flight, a passenger who was instructed to exit via the rear door walked toward the running left engine and propeller despite ground personnel directions.

Incident Details

The incident involved a flight that had returned from dropping parachutists. The pilot left the engines running while the next load of parachutists was being loaded. A passenger who had ridden on the previous flight was instructed by the pilot to exit through the rear door; the pilot informed her that ground personnel would provide direction.

Sequence of Events

Upon exiting the aircraft, the passenger was directed by ground personnel to move toward the rear of the aircraft. She initially began walking in that direction but then turned and proceeded toward the running left engine and propeller. Ground personnel were unable to stop her before she walked into the path of the left propeller.

Additional Information

The source does not provide further details about the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, number of occupants, or any injuries or damage. The specific time of day, weather conditions, and ATC involvement are also not mentioned.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05646. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.