What happened
While operating as an air taxi, a float-equipped aircraft was departing a remote bay located approximately 20 miles north of Ketchelkin, Alaska. The flight was intended to transport passengers back to Ketchikan following a ground tour. During the wait for passengers, the pilot observed that southeasterly winds had intensified, creating choppy waves in nearby coves compared to the calm conditions present during the previous landing.
To mitigate the impact of the wind and waves, the pilot chose a departure path toward the interior of the bay, heading toward rising terrain. Although the pilot intended to perform a shallow right-hand turn toward the bay's mouth, the presence of concentrated choppy waves along that path suggested stronger winds. Consequently, the pilot decided to fly straight to avoid the waves and execute a 180-degree left turn within the bay.
At an altitude of approximately 400 feet, the pilot initiated this turn. During the maneuver, the aircraft encountered a downdraft, which prevented the pilot from climbing over the surrounding high terrain. The aircraft subsequently stalled at an altitude of roughly 60 feet above the ground. The accident resulted in six fatalities (five passengers, including two children, and one survivor who later succumbed to injuries) and one survivor.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of the aircraft revealed no mechanical issues or anomalies. However, a weather study conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board confirmed the presence of a gust front and an abrupt wind change in the vicinity at the time of the accident. Other pilots in the area also reported experiencing turbulence, strong winds, and low-level windshear. The encounter with a downdraft during the turn was a critical factor that hindered the ability to clear the rising terrain.