No fatalities

Single-engine aircraft crash following takeoff from Deadhorse (N3602R)

Deadhorse, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On April 19, 1972, a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) (registration N3602R) operated by Jim's Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Deadhorse, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to maintain sufficient airspeed to sustain flight during the initial climb. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine airplane crashed near the end of the runway in Deadhorse after failing to gain sufficient altitude during its initial climb.

What happened

During a recent flight departing from Deadhorse, a single engine airplane experienced significant performance issues immediately following takeoff. As the aircraft attempted to climb away from the airfield, it struggled to achieve the necessary altitude. The flight was interrupted when the plane entered a stall condition, leading to an impact near the terminus of the runway.

The accident resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. While the pilot sustained injuries during the crash, no other occupants were reported.

Findings

Investigations into the incident determined that the primary factor was the pilot's failure to maintain or achieve an adequate flying speed during the takeoff and climb phase.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to maintain sufficient airspeed to sustain flight during the initial climb.