On May 31, 1958, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration N1302N) operated by Reeve Aleutian Airways - RAA was involved in an aviation accident near Driftwood Bay, United States of America during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the climb phase shortly after departure. 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.
A small aircraft crashed into the ocean shortly after departing from Driftwood Bay Airport, causing the deaths of both occupants.
What happened
On a recent flight departing from Driftwood Bay Airport located on Umnak Island, an aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during its initial climb. While the aircraft was attempting to reach an altitude of 800 feet, it lost lift and descended into the sea.
The impact with the water occurred during the climb phase of the flight. There were two fatalities recorded as a result of the accident, involving both members of the crew onboard the aircraft.
Findings
Preliminary details indicate that the crash was triggered when the aircraft stalled while the pilot was attempting to gain altitude following takeoff.
Probable cause
The aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall during the climb phase shortly after departure.