What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Napaskiak Airfield, the aircraft's engine ceased functioning. This loss of power forced the pilot to perform an emergency crash landing. During the descent, the aircraft impacted a drainage ditch before coming to a final stop.
Despite the impact, all seven occupants managed to exit the wreckage. There were no fatalities reported, though some individuals sustained minor injuries or escaped without any physical harm. The aircraft itself sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified the primary cause as an engine failure occurring during the takeoff sequence for reasons that remain undetermined. Several environmental conditions at the airfield were noted as contributing factors to the event:
- Presence of ice and slush on the runway surface
- Soft ground conditions on the runway