2 fatalities

Aircraft Crashes into Trees After Go-Around Attempt on Final Approach (N539Y)

Lime Village, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 20, 1986, a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (registration N539Y) operated by Woods Air Service - Woods Air Fuel was involved in an aviation accident near Lime Village, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper in-flight planning/decision by the pilot in command, improper airspeed, inadvertent stall, inadequate altitude, and attempted go-around resulting in loss of control and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on final approach pitched up and rolled left, crashing into trees with post-impact fire. Examination showed landing gear up and flaps at 30°, consistent with a go-around. The runway was icy and its published length was 1,000 feet too long. Both occupants were killed. No mechanical failure found.

Accident Sequence

Witnesses observed the aircraft on final approach with its landing gear extended. The nose then pitched up, the aircraft rolled left, and it subsequently crashed into trees. A post-impact fire destroyed the cockpit, cabin, engine nacelles, cargo, and portions of the wings.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the landing gear was in the up and locked position, and the flaps were set at 30°. This configuration is consistent with a go-around maneuver. No mechanical malfunctions or failures were identified.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

The aircraft held a restricted category airworthiness certificate. The cargo area contained two fuel tanks, an oil stove, tools, a 55-gallon drum, and hoses. The pilot was type-rated in the aircraft.

Runway Conditions

The runway length listed in the Alaska supplement was 1,000 feet longer than the actual runway length. The runway surface was glazed with ice.

Occupants

Both occupants were killed.

Official Findings

The probable cause findings cited by the investigation include: improper in-flight planning/decision by the pilot in command, improper airspeed, inadvertent stall, inadequate altitude, and an attempted go-around, leading to loss of control in flight and subsequent collision with terrain.