Accident
On July 22, 2008, at approximately 1300 Alaska daylight time, a float-equipped de Havilland DHC-3 Otter airplane, registered as N61FE, sustained substantial damage when it struck a tree while landing on a road. The accident occurred following an emergency descent about 4 miles north of Iliamna, Alaska. The airplane was operated by Rainbow King Lodge Inc., of Iliamna, as a visual flight rules (VFR) local flight in conjunction with its guiding business. The solo commercial pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan had been filed.
Aircraft and Flight
The DHC-3 Otter was equipped with floats. The flight was a local VFR operation. The pilot had been scouting local lakes and rivers for fish. While returning to a float pond near the lodge, the engine lost oil pressure and subsequently quit. The pilot then descended toward a road.
Pilot Statement
In a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator-in-charge on July 23, the pilot reported that after the engine lost oil pressure and stopped, he descended to a road. After the floats touched down on the road surface, the left wing struck a tree, causing the airplane to depart the roadway. The pilot noted damage to the wing's leading edge and believed the wing might be bent aft.
Damage and Findings
Following the accident, the pilot and an aviation mechanic examined the airplane. The pilot reported that the number eight cylinder had separated from the engine, which pulled off an oil line. The engine had accumulated 19 hours since its last overhaul.