De Havilland BEAVER DHC 2 N77KZ accident near Mountain Village, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot's improper takeoff configuration due to distraction, which resulted in the airplane’s failure to become airborne and its subsequent collision with rising terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to use the Before Takeoff checklist.

NTSB analysis

The pilot in the float-equipped airplane reported that he did not extend the flaps before he accelerated for takeoff from a lake. He added that, shortly after coming on step, he rolled the ailerons left and applied back pressure to the elevator to "become airborne." However, the airplane did not become airborne, and the floats subsequently impacted the shoreline. The airplane then bounced, skidded to a stop, impacted rising terrain, and came to rest upright.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left elevator.

The pilot reported that he had not maintained a sterile cockpit during takeoff and that he failed to complete the Before Takeoff checklist.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA563 for the full record.