On October 18, 1998, a DE Havilland DHC-2 (registration N94DC) was involved in an aviation accident near Chitina, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight which failed to detect water contamination in the fuel system. A factor was the unsuitable terrain in the emergency landing area. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff, the engine quit about 50 feet above the ground. The pilot landed on a short gravel bar and the airplane nosed over into a river. Investigation found water mixed with fuel in the carburetor bowl, but no mechanical or fuel system anomalies.
Accident Description
The airplane was taking off when the engine ceased operation at the departure end of the airstrip, approximately 50 feet above the ground. The pilot executed a straight-ahead landing onto a short gravel bar. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over into a river. The carburetor remained above water.
Pilot Report and Fuel System
The pilot reported that the front fuel tank was full and selected. The fuel system remained intact following the incident.
Engine Examination
Disassembly of the engine revealed no mechanical, fuel system, or ignition system anomalies. No fuel was found in the main fuel supply line. A mixture of water and fuel was discovered in the carburetor bowl.
What happened in the 18 Oct 1998 DE Havilland DHC-2 accident near Chitina, AK?
During takeoff, the engine quit about 50 feet above the ground. The pilot landed on a short gravel bar and the airplane nosed over into a river. Investigation found water mixed with fuel in the carburetor bowl, but no mechanical or fuel system anomalies.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Oct 1998 involved a DE Havilland DHC-2, registration N94DC, at Chitina, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate preflight which failed to detect water contamination in the fuel system. A factor was the unsuitable terrain in the emergency landing area.
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