Accident Details
A twin-engine airplane operating a scheduled passenger/cargo flight departed from a rural airport located along the north shore of the Yukon River. The airplane, carrying only the pilot, appeared to depart normally but remained low, flying over the river at an estimated 200 feet above the ground. Approximately five minutes after departure, the pilot contacted a local weather observation facility using the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF). The pilot reported that he was having a problem with the airplane and stated that he may have to ditch, but did not describe the nature of the problem. He then announced that he was clipping trees and was attempting to return to the runway.
The airplane subsequently collided with several trees situated on a gravel bar in the Yukon River. The impact separated the outboard end of the left wing. The airplane then struck the river and sank approximately 1.5 miles south of the airport. Recovery efforts were hampered by a fast river current and silty water conditions. The left wing, the left engine, and the fuselage were recovered from the river. The left engine propeller appeared to be feathered. The right wing and the right engine were not recovered.
Investigation
Postaccident examination of the left engine revealed no evidence that it was producing power upon impact, and no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunction was found. Inspection of the airframe similarly disclosed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunction.
Probable Cause
The exact cause of the accident could not be determined.