Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain pitch control of the airplane during initial climb.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff in a float-equipped airplane, he heard rustling noises coming from the aft cargo section of the airplane. The pilot glanced behind him to identify the source of the noises and, as he looked forward again, the airplane impacted the water resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA054 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 21, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Aleknagik, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Dehavilland BEAVER DHC-2 MK.1
- N-number
- N55WE
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1952
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Business
Other records under this N-number
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.