On August 19, 1993, a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter (registration N321KA) operated by Ketchum Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Nikabuna Lake, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fluid, fuel starvation as a result of the pilot-in-command's improper inflight planning/decision. A factor in the accident was the operator's inadequate flight time and fuel upload record keeping. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A charter pilot landed in a small lake after total power loss; an oil-fed fire during ground run destroyed the aircraft. Investigation found fuel starvation due to improper flight planning and inadequate record keeping.
Incident Overview
A pilot operating an on-demand fishing/hunting charter flight experienced a total loss of engine power and subsequently landed the aircraft in a small lake. During the ground run following the emergency landing, an oil-fed fire engulfed and destroyed the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
Investigators discovered inadequate documentation regarding flight following, as well as missing fuel records and maintenance records for the accident aircraft and its operation. Passenger witnesses reported that the fuel gauges indicated low fuel levels prior to takeoff. Examination of the fuel pump showed evidence of fuel starvation.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause of the accident was fluid/fuel starvation resulting from the pilot-in-command's improper inflight planning and decision-making. A contributing factor was the operator's inadequate record keeping of flight time and fuel upload.
