Event Overview
On August 10, 2018, about 2043 Pacific daylight time, a De Havilland DHC-8-402, registration N449QX, was destroyed when it impacted trees on Ketron Island, near Steilacoom, Washington. The noncertificated pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained fatal injuries. The airplane was registered to Horizon Air Industries, Inc., and was being operated by the pilot as an unauthorized flight.
Flight Details
The aircraft departed from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Seattle, Washington, about 1932. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed. The noncertificated pilot was employed by Horizon Air as a ground service agent and had access to airplanes on the ramp.
Investigation
The investigation of this event is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provided requested technical assistance to the FBI. Any material generated by the NTSB is under the control of the FBI. The NTSB does not plan to issue an investigative report or open a public docket.