1 fatality

Seaplane Crashes on Landing at Otter Lake, One Dead (N4936V)

Otter Lake (Chichagof Island), United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 2, 1964, a Consolidated-Vultee 28-5ACF (registration N4936V) operated by Alaska Coastal-Ellis Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Otter Lake (Chichagof Island), United States of America during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by an improper level off on part of the pilot in command. Inadequate supervision of flight and a poorly planned approach were considered contributing factors. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A seaplane on a cargo flight from Sitka to Otter Lake overturned and sank during landing on the lake, resulting in one fatality and two injuries. The aircraft was lost.

Accident Details

The accident occurred while a seaplane was landing on Otter Lake during a cargo flight from Sitka. The aircraft was transporting supplies for the construction of a US Forest Service cabin on the lake's shore. During the landing, the seaplane went out of control, overturned, and sank.

Casualties and Damage

One crew member was killed, and two other crew members were injured. The aircraft was completely lost.

Official Findings

The probable cause of the accident was determined to be an improper level off by the pilot in command. Contributing factors included inadequate supervision of the flight and a poorly planned approach.