U.S. investigators say Alaska plane was overweight for icy conditions in crash that killed 10

A tragic commuter plane crash that took the lives of all 10 people on board has been linked to the aircraft being overweight for the icy conditions it was flying in, according to a preliminary report released by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The crash, which occurred on February 6 off the coast of Alaska, involved a Cessna Caravan operated by Bering Air. The plane was en route from Unalakleet to Nome when authorities lost contact less than an hour after takeoff. The wreckage was found about 50 kilometers from its destination on a drifting ice floe.

Upon reviewing the contents of the plane following the crash, investigators discovered that the aircraft was approximately half a ton overweight for a flight into areas where icing was forecasted. The estimated gross weight at departure was 4,475 kilograms, exceeding the maximum takeoff gross weight for such conditions by about 480 kilograms.

While the weight discrepancy is considered a significant data point, NTSB officials emphasized that it is just one aspect of the ongoing investigation. A final report, which could take a year or more to complete, will provide more insights into the probable causes of the crash.

Small airplanes like the Cessna Caravan play a vital role in Alaska, where most remote villages are only accessible by air or boat. These commuter planes are lifelines for residents, providing essential transportation for medical appointments, shopping, visiting relatives, and attending events.

Weather conditions in Alaska can be treacherous, with icing posing a particular threat to aircraft. Whitney Power Wilson, an aviation accident litigation lawyer and pilot, emphasized the importance of considering factors like weight and icing conditions when flying in such environments due to the potentially tragic consequences.

In addition to the weight issue, investigators are examining the plane’s altitude and the presence of icing conditions in the area where the crash occurred. The aircraft’s anti-icing system was designed to prevent ice accumulation, and the pilot’s adherence to airspeed and de-icing procedures is also under scrutiny.

The NTSB report highlighted a communication between air traffic control and the pilot regarding the closure of the runway in Nome for de-icing. Shortly after this exchange, contact was lost with the aircraft, leading to the tragic outcome.

Despite an extensive search effort by the U.S. Coast Guard, no distress signals were received from the plane before the crash. The pilot and all passengers onboard lost their lives in the accident, underscoring the dangers faced by those who rely on air travel in remote and challenging environments like Alaska.