On September 25, 2004, a DE Havilland DHC-2 (registration N1018D) operated by Susitna Air Service Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Willow, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during the landing phase, which resulted in a collision with the left wing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot experienced a landing incident at a remote river slough where the left wing struck trees after touchdown, causing structural damage to the aircraft.
What happened
The certificated commercial pilot was attempting to land an amphibious aircraft at a remote river slough. Upon touchdown, the left wing of the aircraft collided with a stand of trees located near the water's edge. Following this impact, the airplane pivoted sharply to the left. The floats then struck the river bank, resulting in significant structural damage to both wings and the fuselage.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the pilot reported no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the incident. The damage was consistent with the described sequence of events involving the tree contact and subsequent pivot into the river bank.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during the landing phase, which resulted in a collision with the left wing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 Sept 2004 DE Havilland DHC-2 accident near Willow, AK?
A commercial pilot experienced a landing incident at a remote river slough where the left wing struck trees after touchdown, causing structural damage to the aircraft.
Were there any fatalities in the 25 Sept 2004 DE Havilland DHC-2 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Sept 2004 involved a DE Havilland DHC-2, registration N1018D, operated by Susitna Air Service Inc, at Willow, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during the landing phase, which resulted in a collision with the left wing.
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