HALF MOON BAY, Calif. – The National Transportation Safety Board revealed the cause of the devastating plane crash into the Pacific Ocean near Half Moon Bay last May that claimed the lives of a pilot and passenger. The Viking Air DHC-6-400, headed for Honolulu, Hawaii, crashed into the ocean, and unfortunately, the bodies of the victims were never recovered.
According to the investigation report, the airplane was equipped with a ferry tank system and 540 gallons of additional fuel for the trans-Pacific flight, with its amphibious floats removed before takeoff. Despite the efforts to access the extra fuel mid-flight, the pilot reported difficulties and decided to turn back, attempting to return to California. Tragically, at 11:45 am, the flight crew reported a loss of fuel pressure and engine failure, leading to a fatal crash impact into the ocean.
The U.S. Coast Guard discovered the partially submerged wreckage of the plane, which had sustained major damages with its wings ripped off, leading to the tragic deaths of the pilot and passenger. Further examination of the wreckage revealed the fuselage inverted, with the wings and engines detached from the plane, and the forward fuselage showing impact damage.
Significantly, the report did not disclose the identities of the victims who lost their lives in the tragic crash. The crash occurred just 33 miles off the coast of Half Moon Bay, devastating news for the families of the victims.