Incident Overview
A pilot and a technician were conducting a local test flight following maintenance at Anchorage. While approaching Anchorage International Airport, the aircraft experienced an engine failure. The pilot executed a ditching maneuver in the Cook Inlet, approximately several miles offshore. Both individuals were quickly rescued from the water, but the airplane sank and was lost. The wreckage has not been recovered.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a powerplant failure for an undetermined reason. No further details regarding the nature of the failure were provided.
Aftermath
Emergency response teams reached the scene promptly, ensuring the safe recovery of the two occupants. No injuries have been reported. The loss of the aircraft and the absence of wreckage recovery have limited the ability to conduct a more detailed technical analysis.