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."

FMI: www.ntsb.gov