Accident Summary
A C-119 aircraft crashed into the Bering Sea shortly after attempting takeoff from a sand beach at Big Creek. The aircraft was destroyed, and all five occupants were injured. No fatalities occurred, and the survivors were airlifted to Anchorage for medical care.
Testimony
According to passenger Jim Larison, who was aboard to film a documentary for PBS, the aircraft attempted takeoff but could not achieve lift-off speed, forcing a right turn along the beach. During the turn, the aircraft began sliding sideways, and the wind became increasingly problematic. The aircraft lacked sufficient airspeed to maintain lift, yet the speed was high enough that the wheels were light, preventing a successful turn. Centrifugal force pushed the aircraft sideways toward the sea. The pilots straightened the aircraft and attempted lift-off, but airspeed remained insufficient. The aircraft continued out into the Bering Sea for approximately a quarter mile before stalling and crashing. Impact tore the aircraft apart; the cockpit ended up under the fuselage beneath about 10 feet of water. Larison became trapped in the wreckage, but the pilot returned to the cabin and freed him. There was no fire.
Investigation and Recovery
The aircraft was eventually pulled from the sea and now rests at the mouth of Big Creek in a sand dune. The official probable cause states that the exact cause of the accident remains unknown.