Accident Overview
A tundra tire-equipped airplane, operating under visual flight rules as a public use game management flight, crashed while conducting a moose tracking mission. The purpose of the flight was to locate moose equipped with data collection collars. According to the airplane's operator, a typical flight involves the pilot and observer locating a collared moose and then flying in its immediate vicinity to relay data from the collar to a ground-based station. No data transmission was in progress at the time of the accident, but fresh moose footprints were observed within 50 yards of the accident site.
On-Site Inspection
An on-site inspection of the airplane revealed ground scars and crush lines consistent with a near-vertical impact. The inspection found no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies with the airframe or engine. A readout of data stored in the engine monitoring system indicated that the engine had adequate fuel flow and combustion.
Injuries and Information
The observer sustained head injuries in the accident and was unable to provide any information about the accident. No other details regarding injuries or the pilot's condition were provided in the source.
Operational Context
The airplane was being operated for the purpose of locating moose with data collection collars. The operator noted that the observer's role is to assist in locating the collared animals and operating equipment. The presence of fresh moose footprints near the accident site suggests recent moose activity in the area.