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17 fatalities

Shelter Cove Airport Takeoff Accident (N90627)

Shelter Cove, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On June 27, 1971, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N90627) operated by Lake Riverside Estates was involved in an aviation accident near Shelter Cove, United States of America during takeoff. 17 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadequate preflight preparation on part of the flying crew who failed to remove the rudder and elevator control locks prior to takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Shelter Cove Airport after the undercarriage and left engine struck structures. All 17 crew and passengers were killed, and seven others were seriously injured.

Accident Overview and Sequence of Events After liftoff from Shelter Cove Airport, the airplane experienced difficulties gaining height. During the climb, the undercarriage struck an electric transformer, and the left engine struck the roof of a sewage disposal building. Shortly afterward, the aircraft entered a left bank and crashed into the sea approximately 150 yards offshore. The aircraft was destroyed in the accident.## Casualties The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots and 15 passengers. Seven other occupants sustained serious injuries.## Probable Cause The official investigation determined that the probable cause was inadequate preflight preparation by the flying crew, who failed to remove the rudder and elevator control locks before takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jun 1971 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Shelter Cove, United States of America?

An airplane crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Shelter Cove Airport after the undercarriage and left engine struck structures. All 17 crew and passengers were killed, and seven others were seriously injured.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Jun 1971 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 17 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jun 1971 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration N90627, operated by Lake Riverside Estates, at Shelter Cove, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Inadequate preflight preparation on part of the flying crew who failed to remove the rudder and elevator control locks prior to takeoff.

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