5 fatalities

1976-07-22: Volpar Turboliner 18 (N600WA) — Winship Air Services — Unalaska, United States of America

Unalaska, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 22, 1976, a Volpar Turboliner 18 (registration N600WA) operated by Winship Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Unalaska, United States of America during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain on final approach following improper IFR operation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781229054Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft struck terrain short of the runway on final approach to Dutch Harbor in poor weather, resulting in destruction and five fatalities. Probable cause was controlled flight into terrain.

Accident Overview

On approach to Dutch Harbor, a twin-engine airplane encountered poor weather conditions. During the final approach, the aircraft descended too low and struck the ground a few miles short of the runway, causing a crash. The aircraft was destroyed, and all five occupants were killed.

Circumstances

The accident occurred while the crew was conducting an instrument flight rules (IFR) approach. The official findings indicate that the flight was in controlled flight into terrain on final approach following improper IFR operation.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

The probable cause of the accident was controlled flight into terrain on final approach following improper IFR operation. Contributing factors reported include low ceiling, rain, fog, CLGS below 1,000 feet, and areas of visibility below 3 miles in drizzle and fog.