2 fatalities

Single-Engine Aircraft Disappears During Overwater Flight to Remote Community (N6520Q)

Ketchikan, AK, US

On August 17, 2003, an Alon A-2 (AIRCOUPE) (registration N6520Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Ketchikan, AK. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Undetermined. . 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot and passenger departed in a single-engine airplane for a flight over ocean waters to a remote coastal community. Despite an extensive search by Canadian and US authorities, the aircraft and occupants remain missing as of the search suspension on August 27, 2003.

Disappearance

The certificated private pilot and the sole passenger departed in a single-engine, wheel-equipped airplane for a flight over extensive areas of ocean waters, en route to a remote coastal community. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the point of departure, and a VFR flight plan was filed by the pilot. However, marginal VFR meteorological conditions prevailed along the pilot's intended flight path.

Search Efforts

The accident airplane did not reach the intended destination, and was not located at any en route airport. Search personnel from Canada and the United States conducted an extensive search effort that included aircraft, surface vessels, and ground search personnel. The search was suspended on August 27, 2003.

Current Status

The airplane, pilot, and passenger remain missing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Aug 2003 Alon A-2 (AIRCOUPE) accident near Ketchikan, AK?

A private pilot and passenger departed in a single-engine airplane for a flight over ocean waters to a remote coastal community. Despite an extensive search by Canadian and US authorities, the aircraft and occupants remain missing as of the search suspension on August 27, 2003.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Aug 2003 Alon A-2 (AIRCOUPE) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Aug 2003 involved an Alon A-2 (AIRCOUPE), registration N6520Q, at Ketchikan, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Undetermined. .

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030912X01525. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.