No fatalities

Aircraft crash during takeoff at Chapman Glacier (VP-FAN)

Chapman Glacier, AntarcticaTakeoff (climb)

On February 26, 1968, a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) (registration VP-FAN) operated by British Antarctic Survey - BAS was involved in an aviation accident near Chapman Glacier, Antarctica during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the takeoff accident is currently undetermined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed while departing from Chapman Glacier in Palmer Land, resulting in no fatalities among the five people on board.

What happened

During a departure from Chapman Glacier, located in Palmer Land, an aircraft experienced a crash during its takeoff phase. The incident occurred under circumstances that remain unidentified at this time. Despite the impact, all five occupants of the aircraft were successfully rescued from the site.

While the crew and passengers survived the event, the aircraft sustained significant damage. Following the assessment of the wreckage, the aircraft was declared a total loss and was determined to be damaged beyond repair.

Findings

The specific reasons for the crash have not yet been established, as the cause of the accident remains unknown.

Probable cause

The cause of the takeoff accident is currently undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Feb 1968 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident near Chapman Glacier, Antarctica?

An aircraft crashed while departing from Chapman Glacier in Palmer Land, resulting in no fatalities among the five people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Feb 1968 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Feb 1968 involved a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter), registration VP-FAN, operated by British Antarctic Survey - BAS, at Chapman Glacier, Antarctica.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the takeoff accident is currently undetermined.