4 fatalities

1994-11-24: De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (C-GKBD) — Kenn Borek Air — Rothera Station, Antarctica

Rothera Station, AntarcticaTakeoff (climb)

On November 24, 1994, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration C-GKBD) operated by Kenn Borek Air was involved in an aviation accident near Rothera Station, Antarctica during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty as rescuers and investigators were unable to reach the crash site that was unstable and too dangerous. The stall occurred at a too low altitude to expect recovery. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781208533Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine charter aircraft stalled and crashed into an iceberg slope during initial climb from Rothera Station, killing all four occupants. The crash site was unreachable, preventing a definitive cause determination.

Accident Overview

On an unspecified date, a twin-engine charter aircraft departed Rothera Station's runway 18 on a flight to Terra Nova, carrying two passengers and two pilots. During the initial climb, the aircraft became unstable and began rolling side to side. At approximately 100 feet above ground, it stalled and impacted the slope of an iceberg facing the airport. The wreckage burst into flames.

Occupants and Fatalities

The aircraft carried four occupants: two passengers and two pilots. All four were killed in the accident.

Investigation and Probable Cause

Rescuers and investigators were unable to reach the crash site due to its instability and hazardous conditions. As a result, the exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. The official finding states that the stall occurred at an altitude too low to expect recovery.