What happened
A scheduled flight departing from King Cove experienced an initial delay caused by a passing snow squall. While an observer at the departure airport noted favorable conditions during takeoff, dark clouds were visible in the direction of the intended destination, Cold Bay. The flight failed to arrive at its destination.
The aircraft was later located after impacting terrain at an elevation of approximately 1,250 feet. The wreckage was situated on a ridgeline located between King Cove and Cold Bay. At the time of the incident, meteorological reports for an area roughly 8 miles west-northwest of Cold Bay indicated the presence of snow showers of undetermined intensity across all quadrants.
There was one fatality involving the pilot, who was the only person on board the aircraft during the flight.
Findings
- The flight departed following a weather-related delay.
- The aircraft struck terrain at a mid-level ridgeline.
- Snow showers were present in the vicinity of the destination airport during the flight period.