Accident Overview
A four-engine aircraft, operating a repatriation flight for Navy personnel, struck a volcano slope on Great Sitkin Island while cruising at 4,700 feet in limited visibility. The accident occurred about 25 miles northeast of Adak Airfield. The aircraft was destroyed, and all 10 occupants were killed. The official probable cause is controlled flight into terrain.
Flight Details
The flight originated from Whidbey Island Naval Air Station and was bound for Adak, with an intermediate stop at Elmendorf Air Force Base. After an uneventful flight from Anchorage, the aircraft continued toward Adak. While still in cruise, it impacted the slope of a volcano on Great Sitkin Island. The purpose of the flight was to bring Navy personnel back to Whidbey Island for the Christmas holiday.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation into the accident determined that the aircraft was flown into terrain while under control. The probable cause is listed as controlled flight into terrain. No other factors were cited.