On 22 Sep 2019, a De Havilland BEAVER DHC 2 No Series was involved in an aviation accident near Mountain Village, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper takeoff configuration due to distraction, which resulted in the airplane’s failure to become airborne and its subsequent collision with rising terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A float-equipped airplane sustained substantial damage to its left elevator after the pilot, who did not extend flaps, attempted takeoff. The floats struck the tundra, causing the aircraft to bounce and skid to a stop.
Accident Sequence
During a takeoff attempt in a float-equipped airplane, the pilot reported that he did not extend the flaps before accelerating. After the airplane came on step, the pilot applied left aileron and back pressure on the yoke to become airborne. However, the airplane did not lift off; instead, the floats struck the tundra. The aircraft then bounced and skidded to a stop in an upright position.
Aircraft Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left elevator of the airplane. No other damage was reported.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that he had not maintained a sterile cockpit during the takeoff and failed to complete the Before Takeoff Checklist. He also reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.