NTSB Factual Report

On August 22, 2005, about 1630 Alaska daylight time, a float-equipped de Havilland Beaver DHC-2 MK.1 airplane, N5333G, sustained substantial damage when it encountered terrain during the takeoff roll from the Togiak River, 44 miles west-northwest of Aleknagik, Alaska. The airplane was being operated by the Mission Creek Lodge, Aleknagik, as a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country business flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The commercial certificated pilot and five passengers were not injured; a sixth passenger received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and company flight following procedures were in effect.

During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator-in-charge (IIC) on August 25, the pilot said prior to takeoff he made an assessment of wind and water conditions, and elected to takeoff downstream. He said the airplane accelerated downstream, and was on the step when he reached his no-go decision point. Although it had not reached flying speed, he felt the airplane would fly. He said the airplane continued downstream on the step, but failed to accelerate. The river made an 80-degree right turn, which he entered on the step. He said he intended to complete the turn, and then abort the takeoff. During the turn, the airplane started skidding toward the left bank, and the left wing caught in the alders along the bank. The airplane subsequently impacted the left bank, resulting in structural damage to the wings, floats, and fuselage. The pilot said prior to the accident there were no known mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control during the takeoff roll, and an encounter with high vegetation and a river bank. Factors associated with the accident are high vegetation and a riverbank.