23 Jun 2018: DEHAVILLAND DHC-2 (N5221G) — Dillingham, AK

No fatalitiesDillingham, AK, United States

A private pilot sustained serious injuries after a floatplane lost directional control and struck trees during a landing attempt on a remote river.

What happened

On June 22, 2018, at approximately 1730 Alaska daylight time, a float-equipped de Havillandum DHC-2, registration N5221G, crashed about 53 miles northwest of Dillingham, Alaska. The aircraft departed Naknek Lake (5NK) at approximately 1645 for a personal flight under visual flight rules.

The pilot was attempting to land on a remote river during conditions involving a tailwind. After the aircraft touched down on the water, it bounced, and a gust of wind caused the tail of the airplane to swing approximately 45 degrees to the left. The aircraft subsequently struck the riverbank, moved onto the shore, and collided with trees. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot sustained one serious injury, while the three passengers were not injured.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to maintain directional control of the aircraft while landing in gusting wind conditions.

Contributing factors

Causes

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedEffect on operation

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome