Accident Overview
On June 18, 2024, at approximately 1400 Alaska daylight time, a float-equipped Piper PA-18-150 airplane, registration N645DT, was substantially damaged when it crashed on Crescent Lake near Moose Pass, Alaska. The instructor pilot and the pilot receiving instruction sustained fatal injuries. The airplane was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight by Alaska Float Ratings.
Flight Details
The flight departed Trail Lake, Moose Pass, around 1245 with an anticipated return time no later than 1430. The purpose was to provide dual flight training for a single-engine sea add-on rating. The operator stated that the planned destination was Bench Lake, and the airplane departed with 25 gallons of 100LL aviation fuel.
Witness Observations
Two witnesses located on the northeast shoreline of Crescent Lake reported observing the accident airplane performing several touch-and-go landings near the middle of the lake. They noted that as the airplane continued a northeasterly approach for another touch-and-go at an estimated 400 feet above the water, it pitched down into a nose-low attitude and began a slight counterclockwise rotation before impacting the water. One witness recalled seeing the airplane pitch up slightly just before impact. Shortly after impact, the wreckage sank below the surface.
Search and Recovery
When the airplane failed to return, the operator initiated a search and found portions of floating wreckage on Crescent Lake. Search personnel from the Alaska State Troopers, Alaska Air National Guard, and volunteers conducted an extensive search of the area and shoreline. On June 19, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) located the submerged wreckage at a depth of 194 feet. Underwater footage revealed that the left float had separated from the airplane, and the left wing exhibited damage to the inboard leading edge consistent with impact from the left float. On June 20, recovery teams, including deep-water divers, recovered the submerged wreckage and the two occupants and moved them to the shoreline.
Current Status
The wreckage has been transported to a secure facility for a detailed examination, which is pending.