Yukon Otter Crash During Diamond Drill Move (C-FBCG)

Incident Overview and Load Details An Otter was operating a diamond drill move from Pelly Crossing Airport in the Yukon to a site 45 miles to the east. The aircraft carried 2,300 pounds of drill equipment, along with the pilot and one passenger. With this load and fuel, the aircraft's weight was just under the maximum authorized weight of 8,000 pounds. ## Departure and Loss of Altitude Pelly Crossing Airport had a 3,000-foot east/west gravel runway at an elevation of 1,870 feet in mountainous terrain. The pilot departed runway 07 using a reduced power setting and, upon becoming airborne, pumped the flaps to the full-up position. The aircraft began to settle toward the trees off the end of the strip. The pilot applied full power, but as the aircraft continued to settle into the trees, the throttle was closed. ## Impact, Fire, and Injuries The Otter descended into the trees, burst into flames, and was destroyed by a post-impact fire. The pilot was able to egress the aircraft and helped the passenger out. Both received serious burns and other injuries.