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2 fatalities

Fatal single-engine aircraft accident at Cordova Airstrip (N4747S)

Cordova, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On April 18, 1978, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration N4747S) operated by Chitna Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Cordova, United States of America during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft stalled during the climb because the pilot failed to keep up the necessary flying speed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

A single-engine aircraft crashed and caught fire following a stall during its initial climb from Cordova Airstrip, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

Following departure from the Cordova Airstrip, a single-engine aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall while attempting to climb. The loss of control led to a crash that resulted in a significant post-impact fire. The wreckage was completely destroyed by the flames.

There were two fatalities recorded in the accident, as both occupants on board perished during the event. No survivors were reported from the flight.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the aircraft entered a stall state during the early stages of its ascent. The primary factor contributing to this loss of altitude was the pilot-in-command's failure to maintain sufficient airspeed during the initial climb phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft stalled during the climb because the pilot failed to keep up the necessary flying speed.
Aerodynamic stall

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