2 fatalities

1969-09-06: De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (N2711N) — Interior Airways — Sagwon, United States of America

Sagwon, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On September 6, 1969, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration N2711N) operated by Interior Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Sagwon, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper IFR operation on behalf of the crew which resulted in an uncontrolled collision with ground. Contributing factors: low ceiling, weather considerably worse than forecast. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 11 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781237176Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight from Fairbanks crashed during final approach to Sagwon after encountering low clouds. Both crew members were killed. The probable cause was improper IFR operation leading to a collision with the ground.

Accident

A cargo flight originating from Fairbanks was on final approach to Sagwon when the crew encountered poor weather conditions, including low clouds. While descending to an altitude of 175 feet, the aircraft struck the ground in an approximately 30° bank near a level pitch attitude and crashed. Both crew members sustained fatal injuries.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be improper IFR operation by the crew, which resulted in an uncontrolled collision with the ground. Contributing factors included a low ceiling and weather conditions that were considerably worse than forecast.