On January 31, 1977, a Chase YC-122 Avitruc (registration N5904V) operated by TransNorthern Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Anchorage-Ted Stevens Intl, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall during initial climb after the pilot-in-command failed to maintain flying speed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An airplane stalled and crashed shortly after takeoff from Anchorage-Intl Airport. One crew member was killed, two others seriously injured. Official findings cite stall during initial climb due to pilot failing to maintain speed, with contributing factors including inadequate preflight, airframe ice, and frost on wings.
Accident Overview
Shortly after departing from Anchorage-Intl Airport, the airplane entered a stall while climbing and subsequently crashed. The accident resulted in one crew member fatality and serious injuries to two other crew members.
Official Findings
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be a stall during the initial climb after the pilot-in-command failed to maintain flying speed. Several contributing factors were identified:
- Inadequate preflight preparation
- Airframe ice
- Frost found on the wings after impact
The investigation noted the presence of ice and frost on the airframe, which likely degraded aerodynamic performance. The pilot's failure to adequately prepare for the flight, including addressing the ice and frost, was considered a contributing element. No other causal or contributing factors were reported.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Jan 1977 Chase YC-122 Avitruc accident near Anchorage-Ted Stevens Intl, United States of America?
An airplane stalled and crashed shortly after takeoff from Anchorage-Intl Airport. One crew member was killed, two others seriously injured. Official findings cite stall during initial climb due to pilot failing to maintain speed, with contributing factors including inadequate preflight, airframe ice, and frost on…
Were there any fatalities in the 31 Jan 1977 Chase YC-122 Avitruc accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Jan 1977 involved a Chase YC-122 Avitruc, registration N5904V, operated by TransNorthern Aviation, at Anchorage-Ted Stevens Intl, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Stall during initial climb after the pilot-in-command failed to maintain flying speed.