Thu, Aug 12, 2010
Ruggedness Of The Terrain Also Slowed Rescue Efforts
Alaska is known for its rugged
terrain and sometimes deplorable weather, and in fact, the
remoteness and the beauty of the state is part of what makes it a
place people want to visit. But those factors played against
rescuers trying to reach the site where a DeHavilland DHC-3T Otter
went down Monday, an accident which fatally injured former Alaska
Senator Ted Stevens and four others.
A slow-moving summer storm brought fog into the region reducing
visibility. The Otter reportedly impacted the side of a mountain
with a 40 degree slope, according to pilots overflying the area.
There was no post-crash fire. The plane apparently went down
between 1430 and 1530 local time about 17 miles north of Dillingham
in southwest Alaska. The plane was taking those on board to a
fishing camp, and was reported missing when it did not arrive as
expected. The site was located about 1900 local time, and medical
personnel were reportedly dropped onto the site within an hour of
its discovery. But due to the ruggedness of the
terrain, a doctor with a satellite phone had to hike 1,000
feet to reach the site, according to CNN.
Investigators say they will consider the weather as they look
for the cause of the accident, though probable cause likely won't
be established for months or more. Alaska National Guard Major Guy
Hayes told CNN that "poor weather always remains a factor when
you're out here ... weather can change drastically."
In a media briefing, NTSB chair Deborah Hersman said "the
weather was very challenging for those responding."
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