Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff with a quartering tailwind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff in a float-equipped airplane, with left quartering tailwind, a gust of wind resulted in a loss of directional control. He aborted the takeoff but was unable to regain control and the left wing impacted a pole which rotated the airplane to the left and the right wing struck a boat. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC23LA057 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 26, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Point Baker, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Dehavilland DHC-2 MK. I(L20A)
- N-number
- N6782L
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1955
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.