Accident Summary
On 9 May 1996, a single-engine, float-equipped DHC-3 Otter departed Ketchikan, Alaska, at 0905 Pacific daylight time (PDT) on a visual flight rules (VFR) ferry flight to Dawson Creek, British Columbia, with a final destination of Buffalo Narrows, Saskatchewan. The flight crew consisted of a pilot and a co-pilot. After a refueling stop and weather briefing at Prince Rupert, British Columbia, the aircraft continued eastbound along the published Telkwa Pass VFR route. When the aircraft did not arrive at Dawson Creek, it was reported overdue. The following day, an extensive search was commenced and wreckage was located by search and rescue aircraft at 1930 PDT, approximately 30 miles east of Terrace, in the Telkwa Pass. The aircraft had struck mountainous terrain and was destroyed. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Investigation Findings
The investigation noted that the absence of aircraft wreckage and documentation precluded an analysis of technical aspects, so the analysis concentrated solely on operational aspects. The high impact speed suggested either a loss of control followed by a rapid descent into terrain or controlled flight into unseen terrain. The pilot had reported encountering snow showers within 15 miles of the accident site, and it was considered possible that weather continued to deteriorate, adversely affecting the pilot's ability to maintain visual contact with the terrain. Findings included that the weight and center of gravity at the last takeoff were estimated within prescribed limits, the pilot was certified and qualified, and marginal visual weather conditions existed near the accident site.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not determine why the aircraft struck terrain; however, it was likely that the contact occurred during conditions of reduced visibility.