Fatal aircraft accident near Craig

9 fatalities • Craig, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

A single-engine airplane crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Craig, resulting in nine fatalities.

What happened

During an initial climb phase departing from the bay of Craig, a single engine airplane experienced a loss of control. After completing a first turn, the aircraft entered a stall and impacted the water a short distance from the shoreline.

All nine people on board the aircraft were killed in the accident. Following the impact with the sea, the wreckage sank beneath the surface.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the pilot performed a turn that was both steep and nose-high. The primary factor contributing to the accident was that the pilot failed to maintain sufficient airspeed during the early stages of the climb.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate flying speed while performing a steep, nose-high turn led to an aerodynamic stall.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-04-19 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Craig, United States of America?

A single-engine airplane crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Craig, resulting in nine fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-04-19 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 9 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-04-19 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration N167W, operated by Simpson Air Services, at Craig, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate flying speed while performing a steep, nose-high turn led to an aerodynamic stall.

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