The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary report on the fatal plane crash that occurred on February 6. The crash killed all 10 people on board, including pilot Chad Antill and passengers from various parts of Alaska.
According to the report, the plane’s estimated gross takeoff weight was approximately 1,058 pounds overweight for a flight into known or forecast icing conditions. This excess weight may have contributed to the crash.
Meanwhile, the NTSB report details the events leading up to the crash. The pilot was advised to delay the approach to Nome due to deicing operations on the runway. However, the plane’s altitude began to decrease rapidly.
Furthermore, the autopilot disengaged, and the plane’s airspeed dropped from 99 knots to 70 knots in just 19 seconds. The report also notes that weather conditions during the crash were calm.
Additionally, the investigation revealed that the plane was equipped with an Aircraft Payload Extender III (APE III) system, which allowed for an increased maximum gross takeoff weight.
However, the plane’s weight exceeded the maximum allowed weight for the APE III system. The NTSB will continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
Additionally, the investigation revealed that the plane was equipped with an Aircraft Payload Extender III (APE III) system, which allowed for an increased maximum gross takeoff weight.
However, the plane’s weight exceeded the maximum allowed weight for the APE III system. The NTSB will continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
The preliminary report on the Bering Air Flight 445 crash highlights the importance of adhering to weight restrictions. The investigation is ongoing, and the NTSB will release more information as it becomes available.
News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
