What happened
At 1755 Pacific daylight time, a de Havillance DHC-3T Turbo Otter, registration C-GZCW, was preparing for departure from Mayo, Yukon. Operated by Black Sheep Aviation and Cattle Company, the aircraft was carrying a cargo of finished lumber. As the pilot initiated the takeoff roll on Runway 06, the aircraft reached lift-off speed before suddenly pitching into an extreme nose-up attitude and rotating to the right. The aircraft subsequently struck the airport ramp, causing a small post-impact fire. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine and propeller at the crash site, noting that the engine was producing high power at the moment of impact. The aircraft's flaps were found to be in the takeoff configuration. While the elevator trim jack indicated the aircraft was set for a full nose-down attitude, investigators could not confirm if this trim was applied initially to assist with tail lift or later in an attempt to recover from the pitch-up.
Technical analysis of the cargo revealed that the finished lumber was insufficiently secured, with only one lateral strap holding the load. The smooth surface of the wood against the plywood floor likely allowed the cargo to slide. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting a commercial license with a seaplane rating and significant experience in other aircraft types, though relatively limited time on this specific type.
Findings
- The aircraft was loaded with a center of gravity that was already beyond the rearward limit.
- The cargo shifted toward the rear of the aircraft during taxi and the takeoff roll due to inadequate restraint.
- This rearward movement caused the aircraft to pitch up, stall, and enter an unrecoverable incipient spin.