Incident Overview
On March 7, 2025, about 1740 Alaska standard time, a Pilatus PC-12 airplane, registration N304PT, sustained substantial damage during a flight near Sleetmute, Alaska. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135 on-demand charter flight. The pilot and nine passengers were not injured.
Flight Details
The flight departed Scammon Bay Airport (PACM) at 1635 with nine passengers on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan to Ted Stevens International Airport (PANC), Anchorage, Alaska. After departure, the airplane climbed to 27,000 ft.
Windscreen Failure
About 1 hour and 23 minutes into the flight, the pilot observed and heard the left side of the windscreen crack. The pilot immediately reduced power and began a gradual descent. Approximately one minute later, as the airplane passed through 24,000 ft, the left side windscreen blew completely out of the airplane.
Diversion and Landing
The pilot diverted to Sleetmute Airport (PASL) and landed without further incident.
Examination
An examination of the window frame is pending.