On May 31, 1947, a Grumman G-21A Goose (registration NC86590) operated by Ellis Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Ketchikan, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crash was caused by the failure of the crew to retract the landing gear prior to landing on the water. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft crashed while attempting to land on a lake near Ketchikan. The fate of the occupants remains unconfirmed, and reports indicate the landing gear was not retracted.
What happened
The incident occurred in the vicinity of Ketchikan, where an aircraft struck the surface of a nearby lake during its final approach. The crash took place while the plane was attempting to land on the water body. Following the impact, the status of those on board could not be immediately determined, and their fate remains unknown to investigators.
Findings
Preliminary reports suggest that a critical procedural error contributed to the accident. It is indicated that the flight crew failed to raise the landing gear before touchdown. This oversight likely prevented the aircraft from making a safe water landing, leading directly to the crash into the lake.
Probable cause
The crash was caused by the failure of the crew to retract the landing gear prior to landing on the water.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 May 1947 Grumman G-21A Goose accident near Ketchikan, United States of America?
An aircraft crashed while attempting to land on a lake near Ketchikan. The fate of the occupants remains unconfirmed, and reports indicate the landing gear was not retracted.
Were there any fatalities in the 31 May 1947 Grumman G-21A Goose accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 1947 involved a Grumman G-21A Goose, registration NC86590, operated by Ellis Airlines, at Ketchikan, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The crash was caused by the failure of the crew to retract the landing gear prior to landing on the water.
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