On September 30, 1997, a Pilatus PC-6-350 (registration N4911) was involved in an aviation accident near Palmer, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An underspeed of the propeller system. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During departure from an 800-foot off-airport landing area, an airplane failed to become airborne and struck trees. The pilot, with 500 prior operations from the site, reported calm winds. The propeller had been overhauled 32 hours earlier. Post-accident engine tests revealed initial failure to reach design takeoff static RPM.
Accident Description
According to the pilot, while departing an 800-foot off-airport landing area, the airplane did not become airborne and collided with trees at the departure end. The airplane was 1,268 pounds under its maximum takeoff weight at the time of the accident. The pilot had operated from this location approximately 500 times. Winds were reported as calm.
Propeller and Engine Examination
The propeller had been overhauled 32 hours prior to the accident. Since the overhaul, the airplane had only been operated from a 3,600-foot-long runway. A test run of the engine-propeller combination was performed following the accident. During the first two tests, the engine did not reach the design takeoff static RPM required to produce takeoff power. However, subsequent test operation of the engine was normal. Testing and disassembly of the propeller governor failed to reveal any defects.
What happened in the 30 Sept 1997 Pilatus PC-6-350 accident near Palmer, AK?
During departure from an 800-foot off-airport landing area, an airplane failed to become airborne and struck trees. The pilot, with 500 prior operations from the site, reported calm winds. The propeller had been overhauled 32 hours earlier. Post-accident engine tests revealed initial failure to reach design takeoff…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Sept 1997 involved a Pilatus PC-6-350, registration N4911, at Palmer, AK.
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