What happened
On the afternoon of September 23, 2008, a float-equipped DHC-2 Mk 1, registration C-FYNT, was performing a visual flight rules flight from Sainte-Véronique, Quebec, toward Lac César. The aircraft, operated by Club César (1993) Inc., was carrying the pilot and one passenger. While approximately 30 nautical miles from the destination, the flight encountered deteriorating weather conditions.
As the weather worsened, the pilot found himself unable to continue the flight or safely reverse course. After attempting to locate a suitable water landing site for approximately 20 minutes without success, the pilot opted to set the aircraft down in a wooded area. The impact occurred at approximately 1530 EDT. Both occupants, who were wearing seatbelts, escaped the two-person flight without injury, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage to its floats and wings.
Following the crash, the occupants decided to trek toward a nearby logging road. The pilot activated the emergency locator transmitter (ELT) before departing the site. The occupants eventually reached a base at Lac Gilberte, but a lack of immediate communication led to confusion regarding their status.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's experience, and the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident. The DHC-2 Mk 1 was found to be well-maintained and in compliance with regulations, with no evidence of mechanical failure or airframe malfunction. The pilot was highly experienced on this route and held a valid commercial license.
Investigators also reviewed the company's operational procedures and the weather forecasts provided by Environment Canada. While the pilot had checked the weather with the base prior to departure, he did not request a formal briefing from the flight information centre. The investigation also looked into the activation of the search and rescue (SAR) response and the company's emergency notification protocols.
Findings
- The pilot delayed making a decision regarding whether to turn back or land as the weather conditions worsened.
- Familiarity with the route and proximity to the destination likely influenced the decision to continue the flight until all other options were exhausted.
- The pilot's decision to leave the ELT in the 'ON' position while departing the crash site resulted in the deployment of a search and rescue team into unfavorable weather, creating unnecessary risk for the rescuers.
- The company's failure to automatically activate its emergency plan—despite the aircraft being late and no communication being received—could have had much more severe consequences had the occupants been injured.